If you need to get to Greenway Plaza, the Mahatma Gandhi District, or Sugar Land from downtown, there is no faster way to do so than by taking the HOV/HOT Lane. This barrier-separated lane bypasses the city's #1 most congested bottleneck and the nation’s 4th most crowded interchange, the soul-crushing I-45S/I-69S Interchange. In doing so, you will not only have a safer commute but also save valuable time.
Prepare as we take you on a comprehensive guide with accompanying pictures on navigating this game-changing lane effectively.
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
Route: Take Milam Street southbound at any point from Commerce Street at the north end of downtown to West Alabama Street.
Traffic Flow: Milam Street, approximately 2 miles long, offers a fast way through downtown and Midtown with synchronized traffic lights.
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
Route: Take Smith Street southbound at any point from Franklin Street at the north end of downtown to Holman Street.
Traffic Flow: Smith Street, approximately 1.8 miles long, also has synchronized lights for smoother traffic flow.
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
Route: Take Bagby Street southbound at any point between St. Joseph Parkway and Holman Street.
Traffic Flow: Bagby Street, approximately 0.92 miles long, is entirely within Midtown, making it practical for drivers from Montrose.
Approaching the Entrance: As you approach Holman, ensure you are in the left lane to find the entrance ramp to the HOV/HOT lane.
...and once you get on, it's smooth sailing to all points southwest
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
Plan Your Entry: Get on one of the designated entrances (Milam, Smith, or Bagby Streets) immediately. These streets are good roads and allow you to enter the HOV/HOT lane because of the synchronized lights.
Prepare for Tolls: Ensure you have a toll tag and sufficient funds in your toll account if you use the lanes during toll hours.
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 getting you to Greenway Plaza, the Mahatma Gandhi District, or Sugar Land with ease, especially during rush hour. So buckle up and enjoy the smooth ride!
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Have you used the I-69S HOV/HOT Lane? If so, share your tricks and strategies for beating the traffic in the comments below.