Phased opening begins with testing of San Mateo 101 Express Lanes

Published on October 31, 2022

Construction of the Express Lanes from Whipple Avenue in Redwood City to I-380 in South San Francisco is nearly complete, and testing of the toll equipment is expected to begin this week.

The toll testing period will confirm all equipment is working properly and help drivers become familiar with the operations of the new Express Lanes to avoid confusion.

During this period, the Express Lanes will be open to HOV 3+ (vehicles with 3 or more passengers) and motorcycles ONLY from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday. The lanes will be open to all vehicles during all other times. FasTrak® is required. 

The new Express Lanes will open to HOV 3+ traffic after the following opening sequence is complete:

1. The “UNDER CONSTRUCTION” banners are replaced by “TOLL TESTING” banners.
2. The destinations are covered by temporary “HOV 3+ ONLY” signs.
3. The temporary orange reflective barriers that are currently blocking the new express lanes are removed. Approximately 3 miles of barrier can be removed per night until the entire lane is open.

The southbound lane will open first, followed by the northbound lane. Depending on weather, it’s anticipated the southbound lane will be fully open for HOV 3+ and motorcycle traffic by the last week of October* and the northbound lane will be fully open for HOV 3+ and motorcycle traffic by the first week of November*.

*These dates are estimates. Construction activities are subject to change without notice.

To learn more about what you need to be ready to use the Express Lanes in San Mateo County, visit 101expresslanes.org.