15 Freeway Express Lanes Signage
An example of a standard new sign. Instead of displaying the minimum toll rate, the new signs will list current toll rates and estimated travel times to upcoming freeway connectors. Additionally, the diamond HOV symbol will be replaced on most signs with “HOV 2+ Free” to help clarify that high occupancy vehicles can use the Express Lanes for free. Image: SANDAG

New signs are being installed along Interstate 15 Express Lanes this week that are designed to provide easy-to-read information about toll roads rates and usage.

Recent research found that existing signage on the I-15 Express Lanes can be difficult to read, and that posted information about toll rates and who can use the lanes isn’t easily understood, according to the San Diego Association of Governments. With input from I-15 commuters that participated in focus groups and surveys, upgraded signs were designed to address these issues, SANDAG said in a statement released Thursday.

The I-15 Express Lanes exist between State Route 78 in Escondido and State Route 163 in San Diego.

SANDAG will be installing signs along the northbound lanes first, beginning at the south end of the Express Lanes and moving north. Signs will be installed in the southbound lanes next, beginning at the north end of the Express Lanes and moving south. Signs near transit centers and leading to Direct Access Ramps will be installed last, with the entire project anticipated to take approximately 12 weeks to complete, according to SANDAG.

To minimize impacts to traffic, new signs will be installed at night between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. During those work windows, drivers can expect lane closures in the Express Lanes and general-purpose lanes, in the area in which the new sign(s) are being installed. Regular FasTrak toll rates will apply during sign installation work windows, according to SANDAG.

No changes will be made to rules regarding who can use the Express Lanes. Carpools, vanpools, transit services, permitted clean air vehicles, and motorcycles will still be able to use the lanes for free all day, every day, without a transponder. Solo drivers with FasTrak will still be able to pay a toll to use the Express Lanes, and the formula used to calculate the toll will remain the same, according to SANDAG.

For more information about who can use the I-15 Express Lanes, how to use the Express Lanes, and for answers to frequently asked questions, visit 511sd.com/ExpressLanes.

–Staff