The Vail Daily reports that work on the 13-mile stretch of road from Empire to Idaho Springs has been completed and is set to open Saturday. Drivers can use the lane for free this weekend. Fees will range from $3 to $40, depending on traffic, once the testing period is over.
“It really makes no sense for us right now to charge while we use it, we just want to make sure the equipment absolutely works in live conditions, so that’s why we’re waiving the tolls right now,” said CDOT spokesperson Amy Ford.
The express lane will be open 73 days a year during peak travel periods, mostly on weekends and holidays.
The lane will be designated as a shoulder when the toll lane is not in use.
CPR's Vic Vela contributed to this report.
