DENVER -- Solo drivers who would love to be able to drive in the High-Occupancy Vehicle lanes during rush hour will be able to.

The new HOV tolled express lanes opened up for all drivers Friday. The only catch for solo drivers is they have to pay money to enter the lanes.

"This is an opportunity to reduce the impact of congestion," said Rick Capka with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The idea is for carpoolers and solo drivers to share the seven-mile stretch of express lanes on Interstate 25.

"Rather than building out and building more, we're building in," Gov. Bill Owens said.

Solo drivers must get an express toll transponder with funds in the account. If they enter the HOV lane without one, the electronic reader will notice and they will receive a ticket with fines ranging from $70 to more than $100.

"If you don't pay attention to the rules, you'll probably see a fine in the mail later on," Capka said.

"People can then have the choice and yeah, I'll pay the extra money," said one commuter.

Even Greg Pringle, the man who had a dummy so he could use the HOV lanes, likes the idea.

"Now if I so desire, I can use the toll lanes," Pringle said.

The toll fees will vary in price depending on peak hours. Not all commuters are excited about the lanes.

"I go home in that 4:30 to 6 o'clock range," said one commuter. "I would never pay $3.25 to have the ride take 10 minutes instead of 20 minutes."