Solo Drivers May Get Chance At Car Pool Lane – For A Fee

By summer, the Tennessee Department of Transportation expects to propose a plan to allow lone drivers to pay to use the car pool lane.

Currently, lone drivers can be ticketed for using the lane. TDOT says they want to convert those violators into legal users.

The department is looking at whether a so-called “HOT” lane, or High Occupancy Toll lane is feasible for Interstate 65 south of Nashville.

Ed Cole, chief of environment and planning for TDOT, says such “HOT” lanes could help manage traffic by allowing maximum use of all lanes.

“Basically a motorist or a truck driver pays a price and is guaranteed access and speed, legal speed, on that HOT lane.”

Buses, motorcycles, and vehicles with more than one person would still be allowed to use the “HOT” lane for free.

The transportation department is studying if the state could afford the change. Lawmakers questioned how the department would collect fees and control use on such a toll lane.

TDOT’s recommendation is expected by July. The state legislature would have to approve a change