Inrix, the Seattle, Wash.-based  traffic data company, says it will release a new feature soon that will provide detailed data on traffic speeds, travel times and incidents, all of which will give drivers immediate and precise information on time savings on tolled express lanes vs. free general purpose lanes.

Studies have found that many users of express lanes overestimate their time savings. Fitch Ratings claims actual time savings on managed lanes are mostly “low, or very volatile” from day to day.  Users are typically paying $30 to $60 per hour of time saved; and sometimes as much as $200, Fitch points out.

Based on all that, Public Works Financing asked two experts whether better motorist information like that promised by INRIX will reduce express lane traffic and revenue (T&R).