State Patrol to Step Up Enforcement of MnPASS Express Lanes

Beginning Aug. 17, motorists traveling on interstates with a MnPASS Express Lane will see state troopers enforcing the lanes more frequently as the Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Minnesota State Patrol kick off a new enforcement partnership.

MnPASS is Minnesota’s system of priced-managed lanes.

The agencies expect to see fewer motorists using the MnPASS lanes illegally, according to a news release.

Mn Pass Rules

According to the state website, during peak-travel periods, transit users, carpools (two or more people in a vehicle) and motorcyclists can drive in a MnPASS Express Lane for free.

Solo motorists with a transponder and a MnPASS Express Lane account can drive in the lanes for a fee. MnPASS Express Lanes are open and free to all motorists during non-peak travel periods.

The new partnership dedicates six state troopers to patrol and enforce the MnPASS Express Lanes on interstates 35E, 394 and 35W, Mondays through Fridays, during peak-travel times.

"Having a team of state troopers enforcing the lanes every day will deter motorists from driving in the lanes illegally and will keep traffic in the MnPASS lanes and in the general purpose lanes flowing more efficiently during rush hours," said Brian Kary, MnDOT Traffic Operations engineer.

"As the MnPASS system continues to expand across the Twin Cities, we will also look to the troopers for advice on how we can improve operations."

Authorities say price-managed lanes provide a congestion-free travel option during peak travel times by pricing specific lanes at rates that maintain free-flowing travel conditions for all commuters.

Image via MnPass