US 281 EIS Team Looks at “Managed Lane” Concept for US 281
Both toll and non-toll alternatives for improving US 281 will be evaluated in the Draft EIS. But there is a third type of facility – known as "managed lanes" – that is also being considered. While the managed lane concept includes charging a price to single-occupant vehicles, it also seeks to encourage high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) travel and public transportation use. Travelers who choose to carpool or take public transportation could use these lanes free of charge. Increasing HOV and transit use in the corridor would yield environmental benefits, such as lower amounts of air pollution. These types of facilities – also known as "high-occupancy toll" (HOT) lanes or "congestion pricing" facilities – are currently used on many highways throughout the U.S. including the Katy Tollway in Houston, TX.
Managed lane facilities have the potential to provide a variety of benefits to both motorists and transit users. While no strategy can be expected to eliminate congestion, managed lanes could provide an important transportation management tool to ease congestion for all commuters. No decision has been made yet regarding managed lanes, but if such a facility were to be implemented for US 281, operational policies would need to be determined. Should discounts or free fares be provided to carpools, vanpools, transit or other types of vehicles? How would pricing be determined? Who is charged during non-peak or non-"rush hour" periods? Consensus on these and many other policy choices would be essential in order for the public to embrace and support the concept of managed lanes.
To learn more about the US 281 Environmental Impact Statement please visit our website at www.411on281.com/US281EIS and/or join us for Public Meeting #3 on April 29, 2010 at Summit Christian Center, 2575 Marshall Road, San Antonio, Texas 78259. While you're there, please let us know what you think about Managed Lanes and/or the US 281 EIS process.
