Gates Open

Posted Jul 18, 2006 by Chris Chmura

Updated Jul 18, 2006 at 09:00 AM

...And they’re off!

As we attempted to interview one of the first drivers to take-on the Crosstown’s new elevated roadway, the car behind him honked repeatedly.

Our interview cut short, the impatient driver shouted, “You can’t stop progress.”

We’ve talked to a few drivers who say the 10 minutes they’re supposed to gain in a quicker, $1 commute will be used working.

(I’d probably sleep later.)

Sunpass is required.

So far, none of our interviewees has expressed concern about the collapse.

Each cycle of the traffic light brings a half dozen or so cars.

At first the progress was notably sluggish. Now, the pace has picked-up, and I’m sure we’re just moments away from the first speeding ticket on the elevated roadway.

The speed limit is 60 mph.

The 4-year, 9-mile project cost $420 million, and according to my chickenscrath arithmetic that breaks down to roughly $6,600 an inch.

Westbound lanes are open 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Eastbound lanes open next month.