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Its purpose is to maintain traffic flow and alleviate congestion. If you drive alone and want a more convenient and predictable trip, open
a MnPASS
account and start using the MnPASS Express Lanes.
Transit buses, carpools and motorcycles can use the MnPASS
Express Lanes for free. MnPASS users can use the lanes during the designated hours.
Small, two-axle trucks weighing less than 26,000 pounds will also be able to use the lanes
by opening a MnPASS
account.
- When traffic or time is against you - choose to use MnPASS
- When driving with a friend - use the lanes for free.
- Driving another car - take your MnPASS transponder with you.
- Solo drivers must have a properly mounted MnPASS transponder and
a valid MnPass account.
- Drivers may not cross the double white lines and must access the MnPASS lane at the entry/exit points in the corridor.
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1.
- Tolls are pre-paid and deducted from your balance
- Funds transfer automatically from your charge account
- Statements are available on-line
2.
The transponder is a small battery-powered radio toll collection
device.
- Mounts easily to your windshield
- Take it with you when driving another car
- Remove it from the clip when riding with a friend and pay no toll
3.
Fees are based on traffic levels in the express lanes to ensure
traffic flows 50-55 miles per hour. Tolls also
depend on where you enter and exit and the length of your trip.
- Tolls average $1 - $4 during rush hours (maximum of $8)
- Fees are posted on overhead signs at entrances
- There is a monthly fee of $1.50 for each MnPASS transponder being leased.
- Cancel anytime - your account balance will be refunded. (How do I close my account?)
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Monday through Friday - 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The lane will be open to general traffic the rest of each week day and on weekends.
The MnPASS rate signs will read "OPEN" when the lane is open to general traffic. The signs will show a price when tolling is in effect.
General traffic that intends to use the "OPEN" lanes must access the MnPASS lane at the entry/exit points in the corridor. By state law, traffic cannot cross double white lines. Violators face a $142 fine.
The Reversible section of the MnPASS system which lies between Hwy 100 and I-94 is always tolled.
- The reversible lanes will operate to the East from 6 a.m. until 1 p.m. at which time it will be closed to all traffic for the directional change.
- The reversible lanes will operate to the West from 2 p.m. until 5 a.m. at which time it will be closed to all traffic for the directional change.
- On the weekends, the lanes will be switched back to the East at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday.
- As there is today, there may be special events that dictate switching the reversible lanes to the West direction. When this is done, they will remain in that direction until the weekday directional change prior to the East opening at 6:00 a.m.
- Traffic in the MnPASS lane is maintained at the speed limit 95 percent of the time.
- We are making better use of the express lanes which has also produced a slight decrease in congestion within the general purpose lanes.
- Buses and carpoolers have continued to enjoy the same service levels as those of 2005.
- Drivers heading east beyond Minneapolis on I-94 use the MnPASS as a bypass to avoid congestion from I-394 to I-94 in the general lanes.
- The lanes have become safer with the controlled access points.
- Motorists appreciate the value of MnPASS. There are currently over 11,800 transponders leased out, and more are opening every day.
- Electronic enforcement is used.
- Violators are subject to a $142 fine.
- The Minnesota State Patrol or other law enforcement officers
will enforce this law.
- Ramp meter bypass lanes are restricted to car pools, transit vehicles, motorcycles and are not part of the MnPASS system.
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