New 10-Mile Express Lane Opens on I-680
A new 10-mile express lane is now open on southbound I-680 between San Ramon and Sunol. The addition of the fourth lane is designed to alleviate one of the Bay Area's most notorious traffic bottlenecks.
This project is part of a larger effort by the Alameda County Transportation Commission (Alameda CTC) and Caltrans to create a continuous express lane network in the Bay Area. The funding for this and other regional transportation projects is supported by local, regional, and state sources, including Alameda County's voter-approved Measure BB transportation sales tax. Solo drivers can pay a toll to use the lane, with prices that dynamically adjust based on traffic congestion. Tolls are collected electronically via the FasTrak system and are designed to keep the express lane flowing smoothly. Carpools, vanpools, and motorcycles can use the lane toll-free with a FasTrak Flex toll tag. The revenue generated from the tolls is reinvested into the corridor to cover operating costs and fund other transportation improvements. This project is one of several aimed at alleviating congestion on the I-680, with other segments also planned for conversion to express lanes. The expansion of the express lane network is a key strategy for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) to maximize the efficiency of existing highways. By offering a choice for solo drivers and encouraging carpooling, the system aims to provide more reliable travel times and better manage traffic flow throughout the region.
