MnPASS sign-up promotion extended

Star Tribune

Last update: November 6, 2009 - 11:39 PM

Twin Cities drivers' enthusiastic response to MnPASS has prompted the state to extend its sign-up promotion for the express-lane accounts.

Commuters now have until the end of the year to receive $25 in free tolls for opening a new MnPASS account as well as $20 worth of bus or train fares if they buy a Metro Transit $20 Go-To Card. The promotion had been scheduled to expire on Oct. 31.

More than 5,000 new accounts have been opened since the promotion began July 20, the Minnesota Department of Transportation said.

The accounts allow solo drivers to use carpool lanes. "We are expecting that many more commuters will open a new account as the snow days are soon upon us," said MnDOT project manager Nick Thompson.

To open an account, visit www.mnpass.net or call 1-866-397-4334.

The express lanes run on Interstate 394 in the west metro and in two segments of I-35W: from Hwy. 13 in Burnsville to I-494 and from I-494 to downtown Minneapolis.

PAUL WALSH