ATLANTA (AP) - A new Interstate 85 toll that lets drivers in metro Atlanta pay to avoid congestion could spread to several other highways in the metro area under plans by the state.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports (http://bit.ly/nhNGmq) that if those plans work out, metro Atlanta motorists will encounter such lanes on nearly every interstate stretch they travel.

Regional and state planners say the I-85 pilot project, which began Saturday in parts of Gwinnett and DeKalb counties, will spread to 151 miles in the next 30 years. Experts say the entire 285-mile network could transform metro Atlanta commuting.

Some drivers say the pay-as-you-go lanes are an efficient way to pay for highway projects. Others say it's unfair to drivers amid the tough economy.

Oct. 3 story: ATLANTA (AP) - A new Interstate 85 toll that lets drivers in metro Atlanta pay to avoid congestion faces its first major test with Monday morning's rush hour.

Authorities tell The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (http://bit.ly/p62uPb) that the goal is to keep traffic in the new lanes flowing at least 45 mph.

Some drivers say the pay-as-you-go lanes are an efficient way to pay for infrastructure projects. Others said it was unhelpful and unfair to average drivers amid the tough economy.

The $60 million project opened this weekend.

Solo drivers and cars carrying two people have to pay to use the so-called HOT lanes, but vehicles with three people or more can drive for free.

The cost is 10 cents to 90 cents per mile, depending on the level of traffic congestion.