Interesting article. Illinois to reduce tolls for fuel efficient cars and car poolers

[SIPNGAS]

Illinois Tollway to establish 'green lanes'
By Sharif Durhams of the Journal Sentinel

Posted: Nov. 20, 2008 2:24 p.m.

Starting in two years, drivers might want to bring a friend if they want to fly along the Illinois Tollway.

The tollway board approved $1.8 billion in road-improvement spending today that includes funding to set aside carpool lanes along 80 miles of toll roads.

In 2010, crews would start converting one lane in each direction of the state's tollways to carpool lanes, also known as "green lanes." Drivers with at least one passenger could drive in the lanes at an established toll rate. Those driving along in hybrid cars or other specific fuel-efficient vehicles would be able to drive in the special lane but would pay more than carpoolers. Solo drivers in regular cars would have to pay even more to drive in the dedicated lane.

While the board has ranked those categories of drivers, members haven't decided the exact fee for each, an Illinois Tollway spokeswoman said.

The tollway board's vote provides $400 million for green lane construction. The rest of the money would go toward improvements that include building a new interchange between I-294 and I-57 in the south suburbs.

The Chicago Tribune published a Q&A on "green lanes" earlier this week.