The Colorado Department of Transportation is piloting new lane striping as a way to reduce traffic congestion for a stretch of southbound I-25 near Centennial.
They are creating a temporary "Direct Lane" for through traffic between County Line and Lincoln, and will spend several weeks assessing its efficacy.
"The goal is that people who are traveling, who are not going to be exiting in those three exits throughout this area…will stay in that left hand lane," said CDOT spokeswoman Crystal Morgan.
Sunday night, crews will restripe the left-hand lane of southbound I-25 near Centennial. The direct lane will be striped with solid double white lines, and signs will advise travelers not to cross out of the lane. It will not have a toll, and any driver can use it.
It is illegal for drivers to switch in and out of a lane marked with a double white line. Morgan said while will not be ticketing on the first day as drivers get accustomed to the new lane, the department will be working with state patrol to make sure that drivers follow the law.
"It is not supposed to be a jumping lane. We expect people to get in the lane and stay in the lane," she said.
While the pilot project is ongoing, CDOT will observe the area with cameras and send workers out on the road to see if it improves traffic conditions.
The department is also conducting a survey of drivers to get their opinion on the experimental lane, which goes into effect Monday, July 14.
