Jul 9, 2008 11:42 pm US/Eastern
I-95 Express Is Here
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
Many drivers have noticed the increased construction and traffic on some parts of I-95, but don't worry it's all part of a plan that will hopefully make many commutes a little easier.
Imagine being able to drive from Downtown Miami to the Golden Glades interchange in only 15 minutes during rush hour. It's going to be a reality in just a few weeks, when I-95 Express reopens. For years the rush hour ritual out of Downtown Miami has been to crawl on I-95. In August though that will change, with two express lanes leading from Downtown Miami to the Golden Glades.
"We are not taking anything away," said Trish Burgher, with the Florida Dept. of Transportation. "We are adding to a system that already exists."
Working overnight and through the weekend... Crews have added two new lanes, put up signs, and are now erecting barricades for 95 express... The state's latest experiment in "pay as you go" - driving.
"It's a variable toll, meaning as the express lanes are more congested, the toll will go up a little bit," said Burgher.
You will be charged anywhere from three cents to a dollar a mile. In other words, a trip to the Golden Glades would run from a quarter up to $9.00 at peak times.
Miramar Resident Phil Rodriguez says he doesn't mind paying.
"Not at all, not if it gets quicker where I need to go," said Rodriguez.
"It's probably $2.50-$3.00," said Little River resident Keith Hughes. "I'll pay it."
"We're happy to see that they are making some moves," said driver Brian Abrams.
Some people will get a free ride, including registered hybrids, motorcycles, public buses, and carpools. However, carpool rules are changing: You will now need three people, instead of two in the car.
And for those who try to beat the system, "there will be cameras on the road that will take a snapshot that will verify your license and you will get charged electronically through the mail," said Burgher.
The next phase is a year away, and will focus on the drive to work, into downtown Miami. In late 2010, 95 Express will extend all the way to Fort Lauderdale.
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