Tolling traffic on both the first phase of the expansion of U.S. 36 between Denver and Boulder as well as I-25 from downtown Denver to U.S. 36 is meeting the expectations of state transportation officials.
Since tolling began in late July, 38,637 switchable HOV transponders — which cost $15 and then allow carpoolers to travel the toll lane without a charge — have been sold.
The number of HOV user transactions was 278,411 and the number of transactions by toll users was 947,219, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation in a news release Wednesday.
Also, 97 percent of the monthly U.S. 36 license plate toll bills were less than $15, as were 89 percent of the monthly I-25 license plate toll bills, says CDOT.
Bus speeds are meeting contractual obligations for travel times in the toll lanes, helping to get riders where they need to go efficiently, said Terry Ostrom, senior vice president of Plenary Roads Denver, which is managing U.S. 36 for CDOT.
Although no figures are offered, officials say cyclists are actively using the first phase’s 11-mile bikeway from Turnpike Drive in Westminster to 88th Street in Louisville.
“With Phase 1 of this project complete, we can already see the value for commuters in the number of people who are purchasing transponders and using the various other transportation options offered by the U.S. 36 Express Lanes,” said Ostrom.
Revenue from the tolling will be made public later this fall.
Officials will host a one-hour telephone town hall meeting Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. to provide information on the proposed toll rates for special events and the second phase of the US. 36 Express Lanes from 88th Street in Louisville/Superior to Table Mesa/Foothills Parkway. Phase 2 is slated to open in early 2016.
The public can participate by call 1-877-229-8493 and using the PIN: 112034.
