North Austin residents can expect a new set of toll lanes on US 183 as early as 2026, thanks to the $612-million 183 North Project.
Project Overview
Construction crews have been working since 2022 on a nine-mile stretch of US 183 from Mopac to SH 45 North. The effort adds two new toll lanes in each direction, a single new non-tolled lane, direct connector ramps at Mopac and 183, and pedestrian and bicycle paths. The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) is leading the project.
“We’ve just been waiting to get this open for a while. We’re excited that it’s coming to fruition,” said Mike Sexton of CTRMA.
The toll lanes will operate like the Mopac Express Lane, with variable pricing that rises as traffic increases.
Northbound Lanes Open First
The first segment to open will be the Northbound toll lanes from Burnet Road to SH 45. Sexton explained the benefit:
> “If you’re driving on 183 today and heading north, passing Burnet, you’ll be able to enter the express lanes and go all the way up to 620 and start using the express lanes.”
Southbound lanes and the direct toll connector to MoPac are slated for opening in the first few months of 2026.
Variable Pricing and Signage
Officials say pricing will mirror the MoPac Express Lane, with signs ahead of the lanes indicating the current toll. Drivers will also receive clear signage about entrance and exit points.
In a press release, 183 project officials added:
> “Drivers are encouraged to slow down and watch for signage as they familiarize themselves with the new entrance and exit opportunities. Express lanes are meant to bypass certain on and off ramps along the U.S. 183 general-purpose lanes to allow for more uninterrupted travel along the corridor. As such, there will be limited entrances and exits to the express lanes.”
Construction Details
Over the next few weeks, crews will install 11,000 new delineator sticks-flexible white posts that separate the toll lanes from the free lanes. Each stick takes about seven minutes to place, a process similar to the installation on the Mopac Express Lane.
The project also includes new pedestrian and bicycle paths, providing safer routes for non-motorists along the corridor.
What This Means for Commuters
The new toll lanes aim to reduce congestion on the existing general-purpose lanes by offering a smoother, more predictable travel experience for those willing to pay the variable toll. The limited entrances and exits are designed to keep traffic moving without frequent stops.
For drivers heading north from Cedar Park toward downtown Austin, the toll lanes will provide a direct, uninterrupted route that bypasses several on-and-off ramps.
Key Takeaways
- First Northbound toll lanes on US 183 open early 2026, followed by southbound lanes and MoPac connector.
- Variable toll pricing mirrors the MoPac Express Lane, with clear signage for drivers.
- 11,000 delineator sticks will be installed to separate toll and free lanes.
- The $612-million project adds pedestrian and bicycle paths and a new non-tolled lane.
The 183 North Project represents a significant investment in North Austin infrastructure, promising faster commutes for those who choose the toll lanes and safer options for pedestrians and cyclists.
