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How to Access the I-69S / US 59 (Southwest Freeway) HOV Lane from Downtown Houston

Updated: Oct 16

Map displaying Houston's #1 most congested bottleneck, the I-45S/I-69S Interchange.
Bypassing Houston's #1 Traffic Nightmare: The I-45S/I-69S Interchange

If you’re heading to Greenway Plaza, the Mahatma Gandhi District, or Sugar Land from downtown, there’s no faster route than the I-69 HOV/HOT Lane. This barrier-separated lane bypasses Houston’s #1 traffic nightmare—the I-45S/I-69S Interchange, ranked 4th most congested in the U.S.—saving you valuable time and offering a safer, smoother commute.


This comprehensive guide, complete with visual aids, will help you navigate this game-changing route like a pro.

 

Downtown Houston Entrances

Three HOV/HOT lane entrances are located in the Midtown neighborhood on the west side of downtown, making it convenient for motorists coming from Midtown, Montrose, and the Central Business District:


  • Milam Street

  • Smith Street

  • Bagby Street

 

Directions:

1st Entrance: Milam Street

An image of Milam Street at West Alabama Street, with a yellow arrow pointing to the entrance to the HOV/HOT Lane on the left side of the street.

  1. Route: Take Milam Street southbound at any point from Commerce Street at the north end of downtown to West Alabama Street.

  2. Traffic Flow: Milam Street, approximately 2 miles long, offers a fast way through downtown and Midtown with synchronized traffic lights.

  3. Approaching the Entrance: As you approach West Alabama, ensure you are in the left lane. This is the only lane that offers access to the HOV/HOT lane. Note that the middle lane leads to Spur 527, and the right lane turns onto Richmond Avenue.

 

2nd Entrance: Smith Street

An image of Smith Street at Holman Street, with a yellow arrow pointing to the entrance to the HOV/HOT Lane on the left side of the street.

  1. Route: Take Smith Street southbound at any point from Franklin Street at the north end of downtown to Holman Street.

  2. Traffic Flow: Smith Street, approximately 1.8 miles long, also has synchronized lights for smoother traffic flow.

  3. Approaching the Entrance: As you approach Holman, ensure you are in the left lane to access the entrance ramp to the HOV/HOT lane.

 

3rd Entrance: Bagby Street

An image of Bagby Street at Holman Street, with a yellow arrow pointing to the entrance to the HOV/HOT Lane on the left side of the street.

  1. Route: Take Bagby Street southbound at any point between St. Joseph Parkway and Holman Street.

  2. Traffic Flow: Bagby Street, approximately 0.92 miles long, is entirely within Midtown, making it practical for drivers from Montrose.

  3. Approaching the Entrance: As you approach Holman, ensure you are in the left lane to find the HOV/HOT lane entrance ramp.

 

...and once you get on, it's smooth sailing to all points southwest

An image of the I-69 HOV/HOT Lane after successfully entering, showing the clearly defined barrier-separated lane.
 

Lane Hours and Toll Rates

The HOV/HOT lane is bidirectional, running in one direction but reversible depending on the time of day. In the mornings, vehicles travel toward downtown Houston, and in the afternoons, they travel away from downtown. This guide refers to outbound traffic moving away from downtown Houston.


Hours of Operation:

  • Daily from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., HOT (High Occupancy Toll) traffic.

  • Weekday afternoons (4:30-6:00 p.m.): Only open to HOV traffic (vehicles with at least two people or motorcycles) toll-free.


Toll Rates:

Hour

Toll

1:00 p.m.

$1.00

2:00 p.m.

$1.00

3:00 p.m.

$2.25

4:00 p.m.

$4.50

4:30-6:00 p.m.

HOV traffic only (no toll)

6:00 p.m.

$4.50

7:00 p.m.

$1.00

For the latest toll rates and hours of operation, please check with Metro. The rates listed above are as of 5/22/2024

 

Tips for Using the HOV/HOT Lanes

  1. Plan Your Entry: Get on one of the designated entrances (Milam, Smith, or Bagby Streets) immediately. These streets are good roads, and the synchronized lights allow you to enter the HOV/HOT lane.

  2. Prepare for Tolls: If you use the lanes during toll hours, ensure you have a toll tag and sufficient funds in your toll account.

  3. Follow Lane Rules: Adhere to the vehicle occupancy requirements during restricted hours to avoid fines and ensure smooth travel.

 

Conclusion

Skip the soul-crushing I-45 traffic and conquer your commute with the I-69 Southwest Freeway HOV/HOT lane. This guide equips you with all the information to navigate the lane seamlessly, shaving off significant travel time and easing you to Greenway Plaza, the Mahatma Gandhi District, or Sugar Land, especially during rush hour. So buckle up and enjoy the smooth ride!

 

Have you used the I-69S HOV/HOT Lane? If so, share your tricks and strategies for beating the traffic in the comments below.

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