Proposed HOT lane expansion causing mixed reactions

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — The Georgia Department of Transportation wants to expand on the controversial Interstate 85 HOT lane, but drivers have had mixed reactions.

The current lane runs along I-85 from Chamblee-Tucker Road to Old Peachtree Road, but GDOT wants to continue the lanes north for 10 miles to Hamilton Mill Road by adding another lane to the interstate.

The expansion comes with a projected price tag of $93 million and three years of construction.

Before work begins, GDOT wants to hear from drivers during two public hearings next month.

"I think it'd be great. I think the added lane will make a big difference," driver Edgar Walker said.

"I haven't seen any help with any of the construction. The roads are still packed. You put 10 lanes on the road, the lanes will be full," driver Dwayne Anderson said.

GDOT said extending the HOT lanes will alleviate traffic. GDOT hopes to start the project in 2014 and finish by 2017.

WSBTV