Policy Updates

New Toll Policy Effective August 1, 2003

View new toll policy

New Toll Effective November 21, 2003

November 7, 2003

On July 14, 2003, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) adopted a toll policy for the 91 Express Lanes based on the concept of congestion management pricing. The policy is designed to optimize 91 Express Lanes traffic flow at free-flow speeds. To accomplish this, hourly traffic volumes in the 91 Express Lanes are continually monitored. Once the hourly traffic volumes are consistently too heavy and there is the potential for traffic congestion, a rate adjustment is made. This primarily impacts the eastbound evening rush hours.

A recent survey of customers indicates that 91 Express Lanes users lead busy lives with many hours dedicated to commuting to and from their jobs. About 85 percent of customers are married, with more than half raising children. Many customers choose the toll road only on days they need it most, joining general freeway lane commuters on other days. Customers emphasize they value a fast, safe, reliable commute and the toll policy strategy is designed to support this value.

Since the toll policy was adopted, there have been four hours during the week with a toll increase - Thursdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the eastbound direction. During these "super peak" rush hours, the toll is $5.50. Recently, another hour has fallen into the super peak range - Fridays 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., eastbound direction. Effective November 21, 2003, this hourly toll will be adjusted by 75 cents from $4.75 to $5.50. As per the policy, all super peak adjusted toll rates are held constant for six months.

In the future, as tolls change, OCTA will notify customers in advance via the on-road variable message signs, the website and emails. If you would like email notification of future changes and your email address is not on file with us, please contact the 91 Express Lanes Customer Service Center at 800-600-9191 or go to My Account / Update Account Information to submit your email address through this website. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at the 91 Express Lanes Customer Service Center.