The Orange County Transportation Authority has approved to widen a portion of the 405 freeway to possibly make room for toll lanes, despite opposition from city leaders. ; Credit: Mick O/flickr via Creative Commons
Despite opposition from some city leaders and residents, the Orange County Transportation Authority has approved to widen a portion of the 405 freeway to possibly make room for toll lanes.
Dubbed the “Lexus lanes,” by critics that say tolls only help more affluent drivers, the approved space would create room for an additional carpool or toll lane in each direction of the freeway. The plan is a part of the $1.3 billion plan to widen the 405 and is also a component of Caltrans’ $400 million toll lane proposal.
Should the newly acquired space be used for a toll lane or a carpool lane? Which would be more beneficial to the city overall? Would either of these help lessen congestion on the 405 freeway?
Guests:
Shawn Nelson, Chairman of Orange County Transportation Authority
Diana Carey, Councilwoman, City of Westminster, represents corridor cities and is an advocate opposing toll lanes