Citation

Regan E. Am. City Cty. 2004; 119(1): 28-32.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Penton Media)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

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Abstract

Better management of some traffic lanes is one option for relieving the problem of traffic congestion. Managed lanes, also known as high occupancy toll (HOT) lanes, restrict the use of some freeway lanes to those drivers who pay to use them. HOT lanes are similar in purpose to high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, which encourage ridesharing by restricting use to vehicles with more than 1 passenger. With HOT lanes, though, such free-flow lanes can be made available to all motorists. Tolls for HOT lanes are assessed exclusively through electronic toll collection systems without traditional toll plazas or the need to stop vehicles. Toll rates can vary by time and travel direction based on congestion levels. This article discusses the HOT lane concept, and HOT lane projects in San Diego, California, and Houston, Texas, are provided as case study examples.