SmartLane or dumb idea? Columbus reacts to new I-670 traffic pattern
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The I-670 SmartLane is officially open, garnering a mixed bag of reactions from Columbus drivers.
As part of Ohio’s efforts to be a leader in using technology to improve traffic and safety in the state, ODOT converted the left side shoulder of I-670 E into an additional travel lane during peak travel times. This is the first project of its kind in the state.
The SmartLane will generally be open Monday through Friday during the evening rush hour, about 3:30pm- 6:30pm. When open, the speed limit is 45mph.
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Click here for more details about the SmartLane.
According to ODOT, the SmartLane is operating exactly as expected. A recent tweet illustrated that the average speed of I-670 E traffic between I-71 and I-270 increased from 24 mph when the SmartLand was closed to 55 mph when it was open (though technically, the speed limit is 45mph).
Yesterday's numbers are in and the #SmartLane operated exactly as expected. Keep in mind, the speed limit is 45 mph when the SmartLane is open. pic.twitter.com/qIWb0rjhHe
— ODOT Columbus (@ODOT_Columbus) October 24, 2019
But how are Columbus drivers feeling about the new traffic pattern? See below for local reactions to the new SmartLane:
![](https://614now.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Screen-Shot-2019-10-25-at-10.46.56-AM.png)
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columbus’ smart lane is now open on 670 and i’m telling you now there will be multiple accidents. columbus has some of the worst drivers.
— Hope 🌻 (@HopeZurbriggen) October 23, 2019
The 670 “smart lane” might be the biggest waste of tax dollars ever 😂 like there is no way anyone in the damn city of Columbus will be able to comprehend how it’s supposed to work
— Brady Young (@BLYoung94) October 21, 2019
if u have to go 45 people will take the main roads to get where they got to go because 45 is to slow the main roads r faster at times an some times shorter to get where u got to go
— troy A (@troylam09131317) October 23, 2019
It was such a smooth ride home. 😊
— Tara Morgan (@tarawsyx6) October 23, 2019
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