Flexible Managed Lanes: An Alternative to Exclusivity

This article advocates the implementation of high occupancy toll roads (HOT) as a forward-looking solution to congested highways. While high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes initially presented a good alternative to expanding lanes, it is argued, their lack of use even in relatively unrestrictive circumstances means that their value in easing traffic congestion for single occupancy vehicles (SOV) is nil. However, as HOT lanes put a premium on the flexible managed lane during peak hours for all vehicles, their use can be controlled by market factors. This use has allowed the preservation of the HOV ideology, which services car pools, buses, and vans, while maintaining the lane’s utility for easing congestion. The author recommends expanding this concept in the form of express toll lanes rather than another proposal put forward that calls for the development of a national network of dedicated truck lanes.