Plenty of changes coming to congested Interstate 80
Q Traffic on Interstate 80 from the MacArthur Maze to the Interstate
580 merge is approaching pre-pandemic levels, especially in the evenings (eastbound) and on weekends. Even the carpool lane is crowded, and I now see construction in the median is underway.
Are we finally getting express lanes to speed up buses and carpools and prevent scofflaws in the HOV lanes if they don’t pay to use the lanes? If not, when can we expect to see improvements on this heavily traveled corridor? I’ve heard something about Interstate 80 in Solano County getting this, but nothing about the core of the Bay with the greatest traffic levels.
— KenyA Wheeler,
Richmond A I bring mixed news for the most congested freeway in the Bay Area.
First, the median work now underway is to raise overpasses between the Bay and Carquinez bridges to allow taller big rigs to move underneath these overpasses. This should be done later this year.
Second, express lanes will be considered for the same stretch, but a final decision has not been made.
Third, in Solano County, the picture is much clearer. Construction, expected to begin before the end of this year, will add express lanes on I-80 between Red Top Road and Interstate 505. The projected opening date is 2024.
Finally, bridge officials are looking at changing carpool rules on the Bay Bridge. They will give buses and what they call “very HOV” lanes (five or more people per vehicle) priority.
Q
I just bought a 2014 Toyota Camry, not a Prius. Do I need to be concerned about the theft of my catalytic converter, and do I need to get a protective cover?
— Stephen Reynolds,
SAntA Cruz A The prices of materials in hybrid catalytic converters are rising so fast that it is making them a big target for thieves, as you realize. But thieves may expand to non-hybrids also. I would recommend getting a cover to provide at least a deterrent, which is a lot less expensive than replacing the converter. Q My last road trip was in June from San Francisco to Seattle. I was very relieved to find that Highway 101 and Interstate 5 (restroom) stops were not only open but well ventilated and clean. — Vicki ChAng,
Berkeley A Caltrans has done a good job on its rest stops.
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