Immobile HOT Lanes Right Under Our Noses

By Steve Poftak
September 15th, 2008

Know what HOT lanes are? They are high occupancy toll lanes that generate toll revenues alongside free (and frequently more congested) lanes. Critics call them ‘Lexus Lanes’ but at least one recent study suggests they are more equitable across income brackets than other funding approaches.

Given our risk aversion here in MA, I’m skeptical that we will try the concept out anytime soon (despite having some great potential, given the dearth of ridership on our HOV lanes).

So, I was interested to hear a radio ad for Massport’s Parking Passport Gold program. How is this program any different from a HOT lane (beyond the fact that it’s for parking, wiseguy).