In a major development for commuters, the 405 Freeway now boasts two newly added express toll lanes in both directions, as well as an extra regular lane on each side, effectively easing congestion between Orange and Los Angeles counties. This significant upgrade, introduced by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), offers drivers the choice to pay a toll for access to the express lanes. The toll fees will be calculated based on factors such as traffic conditions, peak vs. non-peak hours, the number of occupants in the vehicle, and the travel direction.
For vehicles carrying one or two passengers, toll prices will vary from $2.70 to $9.95, while those with three or more occupants can use the express lanes at no charge. Peak hours are defined as 6 to 10 a.m. and 2 to 7 p.m. on weekdays, as well as 1 to 7 p.m. on weekends. Notably, for the initial three years, vehicles with two occupants can access the express lanes for free during non-peak hours. Motorcycles, vehicles with handicapped license plates, and those with Veteran license plates will always be exempt from tolls. Moreover, drivers of clean-air vehicles will receive a 15% discount on toll charges.
The OCTA has also introduced an additional regular lane to enhance traffic flow and has undertaken the replacement of 18 bridges, including streets, sidewalks, and bike lanes, spanning a 16-mile stretch along the express lane corridor. According to Darrel Johnson, OCTA CEO, these measures are expected to alleviate traffic congestion. He noted that the express lanes, which represent only 20% of the lane capacity, handle a remarkable 40% of the rush-hour traffic, citing the success of the 91 express lanes as an example.
Commuter Barragan highlighted the value of the transponder during rush hours, stating that it’s worth paying the toll when accidents occur. For those who enter the express lanes without a transponder, OCTA will send them a bill for the charges, but there will be no penalty fee for the first-time violation. Transponders are available for $15 and can be purchased at the OCTA office in Costa Mesa or online. An account for a transponder can be registered online.
Johnson also acknowledged that there might be some challenges as people adapt to the new lane openings and closures at various locations.
Regarding the funds generated from the express lane tolls, OCTA outlined in a fact sheet that any surplus revenue beyond operational, maintenance, and financing expenses will be reinvested in further improvements along the corridor. As an example, the 91 Express Lanes have already contributed over $22 million for freeway improvements and public transit in the 91 corridor.
Key Highlights About the Toll Lanes:
- There are seven access points between SR-73 and I-605, allowing drivers to reach all interchanges and businesses along the corridor, including popular destinations like Westminster Mall, car dealerships, Bella Terra, Goldenwest College, South Coast Plaza, and others.
- These intermediate access locations have been chosen to minimize the impact on the surrounding community.
- The access points at Magnolia/Warner, and Bolsa/Goldenwest were selected to serve Beach Boulevard, which is strategically located midway along the corridor and experiences the highest arterial volume and interchange traffic.
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