Deal announces opening of new I-75 South Metro express lanes

The new I-75 South Metro express lanes will officially open to motorists on Saturday, Jan. 28.

The reversible, barrier–separated lanes along I-75 South and I-675 South in Henry and Clayton counties will be toll-free the first 14 days for motorists with a Peach Pass. Gov. Nathan Deal said the freebies for Peach Pass holders is being provided to encourage commuters to utilize the express lanes.

“The I-75 South Metro express lanes will provide much-needed congestion relief for motorists who commute through one of Metro Atlanta’s most heavily-traveled corridors,” said Deal who announced the opening along withState Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) Executive Director Chris Tomlinson and Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) Commissioner Russell McMurry.

Said Deal:  “This is the first of several express lane projects under construction or design for the next decade, and these investments will significantly improve the transportation network for Georgians. I look forward to working with SRTA and GDOT to make the commute of our citizens quicker and safer while reinforcing our position as the No. 1 state in which to do business.”

The I-75 South Metro express lanes include approximately 12 miles of added capacity, with reversible lanes extending from SR 155/McDonough Road to SR 138/Stockbridge Highway. The two lanes are barrier-separated from the general purpose lanes and will ease congestion to and from Atlanta during the heaviest traffic hours.

“This weekend, motorists in the corridor will have their first chance to try the brand new Express Lanes, and we hope that many will use this as an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the system,” said McMurry. “We know that it may take some time for motorists to try this mobility option but we also know that there will be early adopters and an immediate benefit to Xpress Bus riders. Georgia has more Express Lanes under development across the metro area to help provide consistent travel choices for those who chose to use them. It is very exciting to have the I-75 South Metro system opening this weekend.”

The toll rates for the I-75 South Metro express lanes are set by the SRTA Board and will range from $0.10 to $0.90 per mile, with a minimum toll charge of no less than $0.50 per trip. Toll prices automatically adjust based on demand and traffic conditions in the corridor in order to maintain free-flow travel trips through the lanes.

“The dynamic pricing model has proven to be an effective method of making sure that the lanes perform at the level customers expect,” said Tomlinson. “The toll prices will help to ensure that the customers who choose the Express Lanes will have a reliable trip option when they need it to get where they need to go on time.”

Vehicles with no more than two axles or up to six wheels may use the express lanes with a valid Peach Pass or a pre-paid toll account in Florida or North Carolina. Public transit buses, registered vanpools and emergency response vehicles may use the lanes toll-free with a valid Peach Pass. All other vehicles, including motorcycles and electric vehicles, are required to pay a toll to use the express lanes.

To open a Peach Pass account, visit SRTA’s website at PeachPass.com. Peach Pass accounts may also be opened in person at the Department of Driver Services Customer Service Center in Locust Grove or the SRTA offices at 47 Trinity Ave. S.W., Atlanta.