San Antonio’s second high-occupancy vehicle lane has opened on I-10 westbound from La Cantera Parkway to Ralph Fair Road. The eastbound HOV lane opened earlier this month.
The HOV lanes are a collaboration between the Texas Department of Transportation and Via Metropolitan Transit. TxDOT spokesperson Jennifer Serold said she expects the lanes to enhance drivers’ experiences.
“This is going to bring a lot of benefits not only for drivers, but for everyone in the community. There have been many studies that have shown that HOV lanes are safe, and they help improve traffic and reduce congestion on the corridors that they're on,” Serold said.
These carpool lanes are intended for two or more occupants — including the driver — in any vehicle: car, van, motorcycle, etc.
No sticker or registration is necessary to use the lanes, just a minimum of two vehicle occupants.
“The San Antonio Police Department is enforcing and patrolling the HOV lanes. Violators may be stopped. They could be cited by SAPD. Or they could just be redirected back into the regular lanes of traffic. And SAPD has identified the fine range from anywhere from $250 to $300,” Serold said.
The HOV lanes will be effective 24 hours a day, seven days a week. TxDOT and VIA are currently planning for two more HOV corridors on U.S. 281, north of Texas 1604 Loop. Those projects are expecting to be finalized in 2021 and 2023.
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