New toll lane opens in Overland Park soon. Here’s how much it’ll cost to drive
Later this month, drivers will have a quicker way to get through Overland Park.
The 69 Express Lane is set to open on the morning of Saturday, Feb. 21. After three years of round-the-clock road construction and closed bridges, this will become the first paid express lane in Kansas.
Throughout the 6-mile corridor, crews replaced 26 aging bridges and all the pavement of what was the state’s busiest four-lane highway.
In addition, six interchanges were reconfigured and 7 miles of noise-muffling walls were installed.
The $572 million project was paid with federal, state and local tax dollars. The city of Overland Park contributed $30 million, which is expected to be paid back with toll revenue by 2042.
Where does the 69 Express Lane go?
The 69 Express Lane is located in the left lane of both the northbound and southbound portions of U.S. 69 Highway. This section, designated by double white lines, runs between 103rd Street and 151st Street.
Drivers can enter or exit the express lane at 103rd Street, Blue Valley Parkway and 151st Street.
The speed limit in both the express and toll-free lanes will be 65 miles per hour.
Entering or exiting the lane outside the designated areas is considered a moving violation under Overland Park law and could lead to a traffic ticket. Kansas officials said the Overland Park police department is expected to increase its presence in the corridor to enforce this law.
How much does it cost to drive in the express lane?
The price of using the toll lane depends on a variety of factors, including the time of day, number of axles on a vehicle, distance driven and payment method.
When the lane opens in February, a ride on the express lane could cost between $0.35 and $3.50.
The price is lower when drivers are billed with a KTAG, use the lane at a less-busy time or drive a shorter distance in the lane.
The current price will be displayed at a sign above the entrances to the express lane.
Drivers only have to pay to use the Express Lane, not the two or more toll-free lanes on 69 Highway.
How can I get a KTAG?
You can order a free KTAG sticker on driveks.com or get one at the 69 Express Lane open house on Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 5-7 p.m. at Tomahawk Ridge Community Center.
If you already have a sticker to pay cashless tolls on the Kansas Turnpike, you are already set. In addition, you can use a transponder from Oklahoma, Texas and Florida, which are compatible with the KTAG system.
Drivers without a KTAG will be billed by mail, which costs twice as much as the KTAG rate.
How can I learn more?
Find information about tolls, the express lane and the project itself at 69express.ksdot.gov. In addition, you can ask questions and get your KTAG in person at the 69 Express Lane open house.
69 Express Lane Public Open House
- Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 5 to 7 p.m.
- Tomahawk Ridge Community Center, 11902 Lowell, Overland Park
