I-4 Express: New express lanes officially open

ORLANDO, Fla. — You will be able to drive on the new I-4 express lanes for the very first time on Saturday.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

The Florida Department of Transportation opened the lanes about two hours early, just before 8 a.m.

Drivers will not be charged to use the lanes from Saturday to Wednesday, giving them an opportunity to determine if I-4 Express makes sense for their commute or travel plans.

Starting Thursday, March 3, an introductory rate will be set at 50 cents per tolling segment.

READ: I-4 express lanes: What you need to know ahead of this weekend

Traveling the entire length of I-4 Express will cost $3.50 eastbound and $3.00 westbound during the introductory period.

Pricing will not be a fixed rate and will be based on the number of vehicles using I-4 Express.

Drivers will need to have a transponder to use the lanes as no cash or TOLL-BY-PLATE option will be available.

READ: Watch your speed: Troopers ready to catch speeders, hand out tickets when I-4 Express opens

Florida Department of Transportation said vehicles with two axles are allowed on the express lanes.

Large trucks, recreational vehicles (RVs) and vehicles pulling trailers are not allowed to use the lanes.

0 of 19

If you’re interested in mapping your route, you can do so here.

READ: I-4 Express: Stickers along lanes display critical information in case of emergency situations

While the express lanes open Saturday, the true test will be on Monday when drivers hit the road for the weekday morning rush hour.

Our team will be watching the roads to make sure you get to work safely on Monday on Eyewitness News This Morning starting at 4:30 a.m.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

©2022 Cox Media Group