CDOT to open I-70 toll lane in time for ski season

A new express lane running from Empire to Floyd Hill will be open this winter, to reduce I-70 congestion during peak travel days. The lane will go 10 miles on the shoulder of eastbound I-70, open weekends with a varying rate based on traffic delays. CDOT expects to open the lane as a toll road 72 days out of the year, during busy winter times and summer holiday weekends. Otherwise, the lane will be a shoulder for safety and snowplowing.  A reduction in driving time is guaranteed with the express lane, but it should also help reduce traffic in the existing two lanes. Amy Ford, CDOT Communications Director, said the lane should reduce drive times by at least 30 minutes for those who opt to pay, with a minimum speed of 45 miles-per-hour.  The price of the toll will adjust according to demand, with an expected range of $3 to $30.