Johnson County, Kansas, has officially opened its new 69 Express toll lanes. After more than five years of construction, the project introduces a new toll lane on US-69 Highway between 103rd and 151st Streets in Overland Park. Drivers should be aware of the changes, as using the new far-left lane will incur a fee starting Saturday at 8 a.m.
Key Takeaways
- The 69 Express toll lanes are now open on US-69 Highway in Johnson County.
- The new far-left lane between 103rd and 151st Streets is a variable-rate toll lane.
- Toll prices range from $0.35 to $1.75, changing with traffic and time of day.
- A K-Tag provides the cheapest rates; non-K-Tag users pay 50% more and are billed monthly.
- All other lanes on US-69 Highway remain free to use.
Understanding the New 69 Express Toll Lanes
The 69 Express project began in 2020. Its goal was to expand US-69 Highway from two to three lanes in each direction. The newly added far-left lane is now designated as a toll lane. This change aims to reduce congestion and improve travel times for commuters.
Drivers will find double white lines marking the express lanes. It is important to know that crossing these lines into the express lane will result in a toll charge. This system is fully electronic, using cameras to monitor vehicles.
Quick Facts on 69 Express
- Construction Start: 2020
- Lanes Added: One in each direction
- Toll Lane Location: Far-left lane
- Operating Hours: 24/7, with variable pricing
Toll Costs and Payment Methods
The cost to use the 69 Express toll lane is not fixed. It varies based on current traffic levels and the time of day. Prices can range from $0.35 to $1.75 for a single use. This dynamic pricing model is common in express lane systems, designed to manage demand.
The easiest and most cost-effective way to pay is by registering for a free K-Tag. This electronic tag, typically a sticker on your windshield, allows cameras to scan your vehicle and apply the lowest rates automatically. You can obtain a K-Tag by visiting DriveK.org.
"Adding capacity to this corridor is going to provide a lot of relief for drivers and give them a more reliable drive time to work," stated a local transportation official, highlighting the benefits of the new lanes.
Billing for Non-K-Tag Users
Motorists who use the express lanes without a K-Tag will still be billed. License plate recognition technology identifies these vehicles. They will receive a bill once a month, but at a rate 50% higher than K-Tag users. This encourages drivers to register for a K-Tag to save money.
Accessing the Express Lanes
Drivers can enter and exit the 69 Express lanes at specific points. These access points are located at 103rd Street, Blue Valley Parkway, and 151st Street. Breaks in the double white lines indicate where it is safe and legal to move into or out of the express lane.
It is crucial for drivers to plan their routes. Entering the express lane accidentally will still result in a charge. The system is designed for efficiency and requires drivers to be attentive to the lane markings.
Why Toll Lanes? Addressing Congestion
The decision to implement toll lanes on US-69 Highway stems from increasing traffic congestion in Johnson County. More than 80,000 drivers use this corridor daily. Experts predict this number could grow by 30% by 2050. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly described the project as a forward-thinking solution to reduce traffic and support economic growth.
Officials with the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) believe these lanes will provide more reliable travel times. This is important for both current commuters and for future traffic growth in the region.
Benefits for Johnson County Drivers
The primary benefit of the 69 Express lanes is the promise of a more reliable commute. For many years, drivers on US-69 have faced significant delays, especially during peak hours. The new express lane offers an alternative for those willing to pay for a faster journey.
While the express lane comes with a cost, all other lanes on US-69 Highway remain toll-free. This ensures that drivers still have a choice, allowing them to decide whether to pay for speed or use the free lanes.
The project represents a significant investment in Johnson County's infrastructure. It addresses current transportation challenges while also preparing for future population and economic expansion.
Further Information
For more details on the 69 Express lanes, including lane configurations and project strategy, the Kansas Department of Transportation provides information on its website. Understanding the system fully can help drivers make informed choices and avoid unexpected charges.
