Growing Satisfaction on Express Lanes in SB County

September 10, 2026

The Interstate 10 Express Lanes continue to show strong growth as drivers seek faster, more reliable travel options across the region. According to the latest annual performance summary, usage of the Express Lanes climbed to 14.6 million trips in FY 2025/2026, marking a 15 percent increase from the previous year. This steady rise shows that more travelers are discovering the benefits of a smoother, more predictable commute.

A major highlight from the report is the continued improvement in travel time savings. In FY 2025/2026, the Express Lanes saved drivers an estimated 500,776 vehicle‑hours, a five‑percent increase over the year before. As more people choose the Express Lanes, the efficiency compared to the general‑purpose lanes has widened, giving commuters a dependable way to reach their destinations faster even during peak traffic hours.

The report also shows a significant shift toward FasTrak, the preferred technology for using the Express Lanes. FasTrak accounted for 92 percent of all trips this past year, up from 84 percent. This strong jump reflects how quickly customers are embracing the convenience of automatic, seamless payment. With fewer people relying on Pay Online, overall use of the system has become smoother and more efficient.

Customer satisfaction remains one of the biggest strengths of the Express Lanes program. Surveys show consistently high ratings (between 4.6 and 4.7 out of 5) and most customer concerns are resolved with a single call. These results highlight how important responsive service is for building trust and keeping drivers coming back.

Together, these trends show how the I‑10 Express Lanes continue to improve the daily travel experience for thousands of drivers. As staff monitor performance and provide regular updates, the focus remains on growing usage, enhancing customer service, and ensuring the Express Lanes remain a reliable option that meets the region’s transportation needs.