Transurban has some tips on how to avoid high toll lane prices during the holiday season.
According to a release, the Metro SafeTrack work and seasonal changes – as well as holiday travel – are changing the traffic patterns and causing additional congestion on I-495 and I-95.
As Express Lane tolls are adjusted per real time traffic, and rates increase when there is additional congestion, Transurban has recommended that drivers looking to save on tolls should make an effort to travel on the toll lanes outside of peak hours.
“Toll prices are 33 to 60 percent less expensive during the hour just before or after the peak travel periods of 5 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 8 a.m.,” stated a release.
Transurban is expecting that the higher than usual toll pricing is anticipated through the holiday season.
“We want to equip our customers with helpful information so they can make the best choices for their travel and have the smoothest possible experience on the Express Lanes. As the operators of the Express Lanes, it’s our goal to help our customers through the peak holiday travel season,” stated Transurban spokesman Mike McGurk in a release.
More traveling tips from Transurban, from a release:
Avoid the peak travel time on the Express Lanes to skip the highest tolls.
Tolls reach their highest on the Express Lanes between 7 to 8 a.m. and 5 and 6 p.m. during the peak of rush hour.
By traveling an hour earlier or later, drivers can shave between 33 and 60 percent off the peak period toll price.
Check the Express Lanes mobile app to see current travel conditions before hitting the road.
Review current toll prices and live traffic cameras on the Express Lanes mobile app. Toll price alerts can be delivered directly via SMS text message or email.
The app is free to download and available for iPhone and Android devices.
Explore carpool and transit options to travel toll-free on the Express Lanes.
Carpooling with three or more passengers is free on the Express Lanes with an E-ZPass Flex. A growing option of ridesharing mobile apps and organizations has made it easier to connect with other commuters to carpool.
The PRTC and Fairfax Connector bus service provide travel routes on the 495 and 95 Express Lanes. Please visit commuterconnections.org for more information.
Visit ExpressLanes.com for links to carpooling organizations and transit options.
Don’t drive distracted.
Distracted driving is a leading cause of regional incidents and a major contributor to roadway delays. Even minor fender-benders sitting in the shoulder cause rubbernecking slowdowns.
