Since tolling began on July 22, the new express lanes on US 36 and Interstate 25 have accumulated over 1.2 million transactions.
Of those, 947,219 were tolled transactions, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation, High Performance Transportation Enterprise and Plenary Roads Denver. Another 278,411 were HOV transactions.
Commuters have purchased a total of 38,637 switchable transponders that allow drivers to indicate if they are using the express lane as a tolled vehicle or an HOV vehicle. The system can also charge drivers based on their license plate, and the vast majority of those monthly bills were under $15.
The organizations say those initial numbers are in line with expectations.
Along US 36, the second phase of the express lane project remains a construction zone. Phase 2, from 88th Street in Louisville/Superior to Table Mesa in Boulder, is expected to be completed during early 2016.
CDOT, HPTE and PRD will host a telephone town hall meeting on Thursday, Oct. 1, 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. to provide information on the proposed toll rates for special events and the second phase of the US 36 Express Lanes. The public can participate by calling 1-877-229-8493 and using the PIN: 112034.
So far, only one glitch with the express lane system has been reported. Technical difficulties with a transponder readeralong eastbound U.S. 36 at Sheridan Boulevard led to drivers getting overcharged, and Plenary Group refunded a total of about $3,600 to all the motorists who passed that checkpoint during the days in question.
