On the right lane to reduce congestion and smog

Managed lanes might soon become a reality on MoPac. The situation is being studied and would add managed lanes on some sections of MoPac (loop 1) in Austin.
Many oppose these lanes, sometimes calling them "Lexus Lanes". It is necessary to note that the existing lanes would continue to exist throughout MoPac. The project itself is like adding an extra lane and requiring people riding alone in their cars to pay for using that lane. It is expected that the speed on that lane will be quicker than on other lanes, especially during rush hour. In addition, this lane can be used by Public Transportation and would encourage more people to use it.
I think this is a great idea, it will reduce smog-creating congestion, it will encourage people to carpool or to ride the bus, and capacity will not be decreased.
Safety issues include the access points of this lane as well as the narrowing of the other lanes. Having taken a Highway Engineering class, I learned that the reduction in width will lower the capacity of the lanes by only a small percentage and will not significantly decrease the safety.
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