The quickest way to reach Sugar Land from Greenway Plaza is by using the I-69S HOV Lane. This dedicated lane allows drivers to bypass the notorious congestion on the I-69S (Southwest Freeway). It’s free for vehicles with two or more passengers, but solo drivers can use it too by paying a small toll. In my experience, it saves 5-15 minutes of travel time.
However, entering the lane from Edloe can be tricky, and that’s where this guide comes in. We’ll walk you through the steps for a faster, smoother, and congestion-free ride. While there are several entry points, this guide focuses on accessing the lane from Buffalo Speedway, making it especially helpful for those in Greenway Plaza, Upper Kirby, West University, and nearby areas.
Do you want to skip the article and watch a video instead? Scroll to the bottom of this article.
How to Access the I-69S HOV/Express Lane from Buffalo Speedway
Start on the Southbound Feeder Road:
You can begin by heading south on the I-69 (Southwest Freeway) feeder road from Buffalo Speedway. Greenway Plaza will be on your right.
Make a Right onto Edloe St:
Stay in the right lane as you proceed along the feeder road. The turn onto Edloe Street is easy to miss! It's a sharp right turn just before you reach Lakewood Church. There are no sighs. If you miss it, you must continue to Lakewood Church and make three right turns to return.
Make a U-Turn on Edloe Street:
Once on Edloe, merge into the far-left lane to prepare for a U-turn. Signal left, slow down as you approach, and complete the U-turn. Smaller vehicles can usually make it in one motion, while larger vehicles may need a three-point turn. Be sure to yield to oncoming traffic—there is no stoplight.
Merge Onto the HOV/Express Lane:
After completing the U-turn, merge immediately into the right lane, which leads directly to the HOV/Express Lane. If you miss the entrance, don’t worry—continue straight to the light and turn right. This is the alternate entrance.
Take the Left Lane at the Ramp Fork:
Continue along the ramp until you encounter a fork. Take the left lane to enter the I-69S HOV Lane. Avoid the right lane, as it will take you back to the feeder road, putting you back where you started.
Turn Right to Enter the I-69S HOV Lane:
As you approach the entrance, turn right to access the I-69S HOV Lane. Once you're in, you can head toward destinations like Hillcroft, Westpark, Westwood, West Bellfort in Stafford, and Sugar Land.
I-69S HOV/Express Lane Details
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Toll Requirements:
During Peak Hours (4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.):
Restricted to vehicles with at least two people and motorcycles (no toll).
All Other Times (1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.):
Open to all. Single-occupant vehicles must pay a toll, while vehicles with two or more passengers for free.
Motorcycles:
Always ride for free, regardless of the time of day.
Toll Payment:
Single-occupant vehicles must have a valid toll tag and use the TOLL ONLY lane.
Toll Schedule:
1:00 p.m. | $1.00 |
2:00 p.m. | $1.00 |
3:00 p.m. | $2.25 |
4:00 p.m. | $4.50 (until 4:30 p.m.) |
4:30-6 p.m. | Only open to vehicles with at least two people (no toll) |
6:00 p.m. | $4.50 |
7:00 p.m. | $1.00 |
Prohibited Vehicles:
Heavy Trucks and Trailers:
Vehicles with more than two axles, trucks over one ton, and vehicles towing trailers are not allowed.
Oversized Vehicles:
Any vehicle that exceeds the lane’s width and height restrictions.
For more details or to check the latest toll rates, visit METRO’s website.
Video Guide: Watch our instructional video below for a visual walkthrough of these steps.
Following this guide, you'll navigate the I-69 HOV/Express Lane like a pro, saving time and avoiding traffic congestion. Safe travels!
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