I-85 tolls could spread to other Georgia highways

ATLANTA - A new Interstate 85 toll that lets drivers in DeKalb and Gwinnett pay to avoid congestion could spread to several other highways in the metro area under plans by the state.

If those plans work out, metro Atlanta motorists could encounter such lanes on nearly every interstate stretch they travel.

Regional and state planners say the I-85 pilot project, which began Saturday, will spread to 151 miles in the next 30 years. Experts say the entire 285-mile network could transform metro Atlanta commuting.

Some drivers say the pay-as-you-go lanes are an efficient way to pay for highway projects. Others say it's unfair to drivers amid the tough economy.