SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Highway 1 Widening / HOT Lanes Project
Frequently Asked Questions
What is happening with the widening of Highway 1?
In August, 1999, the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (SCCRTC) adopted a program of transportation projects for the Watsonville - Santa Cruz corridor to be constructed over the next fifteen years. Included in the program is widening Highway 1 between Morrissey Boulevard and State Park Drive with an additional lane in each direction for use by high occupancy vehicles (carpool, vanpools and buses) and individuals driving alone (single occupant vehicles) who are willing to pay a toll. This concept is call High Occupancy Toll or "HOT" lanes. This project is independent from the Highway 1/17 Interchange Merge Lanes project, which is already funded and is expected to start construction in 2003.
Why consider HOT lanes?
High Occupancy Toll lanes are a cost effective way to maximize the movement of people on highways. Although HOT lanes generally carry fewer vehicles and therefore maintain free flow conditions, they often carry 2-3 times as many people as general purpose lanes. In addition, the revenues generated by HOT lanes can be used to provide other transportation services, such as express bus service. Experience tells us that "pay as you use it" transportation is a reasonable way to secure additional funds for transportation improvements.
How do HOT lanes work?
People who carpool, vanpool or ride the bus use the HOT lane for free. Single occupant vehicles may also use the HOT lane if they are willing to pay a toll via a transponder that is attached to their inside front car windshields. Tolls are usually pre-paid and deducted automatically when the car passes an overhead receiver. There are no staffed toll booths.
What are the estimated costs to construct the HOT lanes?
The cost to construct a general purpose highway lane is estimated to be $12 million per mile. In a built-up environment adjacent to existing development, the cost could be considerably higher. HOT lanes cost more than general purpose lanes due to the need for additional right-of-way for monitoring stations, merging constraints, and barriers. Construction costs vary widely due to issues such as right-of-way constraints, environmental factors, interchanges, overpasses, topography and desired amenities. Caltrans is currently developing cost estimates for the project.
Where will the funding come from?
The SCCRTC has identified $46 million of estimated future state, local and federal funds for the HOT lanes project. The initial total cost estimate for this project ranges between $150 to $200 million. Additional funding will be needed to construct the project.
Where else do HOT lanes exist?
There are currently two HOT lane type operations in Southern California (91-Express in Orange County and the I-15 in San Diego), and one in Texas. Others are under consideration.
How much would it cost an individual (driving alone) to use a HOT lane?
The fares for driving in the HOT lanes for single occupant vehicles will depend on the distance traveled and the actual or expected congestion. In San Diego, tolls normally range from $0.50 to $4.00 for eight miles of travel.
What is the schedule for construction?
The SCCRTC and Caltrans are currently analyzing the HOT lane concept for Highway 1. Over the next year, though a grant from the Federal Highway Administration, a consultant will prepare a feasibility study for the HOT lane concept. Also next year, Caltrans will complete a Project Study Report (PSR) with a number of alternatives, including HOT lanes, general purpose lanes, and carpool lanes. The PSR, which outlines the preliminary design concept and costs, is required to pursue state funding for further development of the project. Subsequent steps are environmental analysis, securing funding and permits, acquiring additional right-of-way (if necessary), public outreach, final design, obtaining legislative authorization (if necessary) and construction. In a very optimistic scenario, construction could begin in approximately 6-8 years. The facility would be open to the public approximately 3-4 years after construction begins.
Why does it take so long?
Large transportation projects are subject to many complex federal, state, and local review, funding, and design requirements. Each funding source has its own stipulations, timelines and reviewing entities. The community must abide by these requirements to avail themselves of outside funds or to secure local funds via taxation. Also, the HOT lane concept is relatively new and therefore requires additional analysis to determine if and how it can work on this segment of Highway 1. Finally, a project of this magnitude will have impacts not only on the many users of Highway 1, but also on the surrounding environment and adjacent residents and businesses. A thorough environmental analysis of the project will have to take place, with ample opportunity for public input. This process also takes time, so that all affected parties can provide their input.
Will the project ease traffic congestion?
The recent corridor study indicated that adding new lanes on Highway 1 will reduce travel times somewhat in both the new lanes and the general purpose lanes for an unknown period of time. In addition, people traveling in the HOT lanes, including carpools and buses, will theoretically be able to travel at normal highway speeds even when the general use lanes are congested.
What is the best way to get project updates?
The SCCRTC web site contains current information about all of the Watsonville - Santa Cruz corridor projects including the Highway 1 Widening / HOT lanes project. Information will be updated regularly. Requests for information can be e-mailed to SCCRTC or sent to:
Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission
1523 Pacific Avenue Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Phone: 831/460-3200 Fax: 831/460-3215
If you have questions, comments or would like additional information on any of the Commission's activities, programs or projects, please contact staff.
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