I-4 Express: FDOT expects interstate to be busier than usual while express lanes are free of charge

ORLANDO, Fla. — Friday morning will be the last time we see a weekday morning commute without express lanes on I-4.

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The lanes are scheduled to open at 10 a.m. Saturday and they will be free for the first five days.

Prices will eventually switch to a fluctuation scale based on the traffic volume.

READ: I-4 express lanes: What you need to know ahead of this weekend

Saturday through Wednesday will be a trial period.

You can hop on for free to see if the express lanes work for your commute.

READ: I-4 Express lanes to be free of charge for first 5 days

The real test will be Monday during the morning rush.

The Florida Department of Transportation said to pack your patience because it’s probably going to be busier than usual.

“We do expect added congestion through the area especially with it being free,” said Jessica Ottaviano, an FDOT spokesperson. “It’s important whether you plan to use the express lanes or the general use lanes that you factor in a little bit of extra time because we do expect extra congestion while people navigate these new changes.”

READ: I-4 Express: Stickers along lanes display critical information in case of emergency situations

Channel 9 will be driving along I-4 on Monday morning, starting at 4:30 a.m. to help get drivers prepared.

Video: I-4 Express lanes to be free of charge for first 5 days (Alexa Lorenzo, WFTV.com)

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