Updated Oct. 28,  2:21 p.m.: Texas Department of Transportation has announced it plans to open the northbound lane of the I-45 HOV lanes for commuters Oct. 31.   The Texas Department of Transportation confirmed the southbound main lane of the I-45 HOV lane from FM 1960 to South Loop 336 opened to commuters the morning of Oct. 17. The $2.6 million HOV lanes span 17.6 miles between South Loop 336 in Conroe and FM 1960 in north Harris County. There is a dedicated lane in each direction for drivers traveling with at least one passenger on board. The lanes will be open 24-7, free of charge, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. Drivers will be able to enter and exit the lanes at designated areas. Unlike the existing HOV lane spanning from FM 1960 into Houston, the new lanes will not have physical barriers and will be open in both directions at all times. While the southbound lane is now open, the northbound lane remains closed, TxDOT Public Information Officer Deidre George said. “We look forward to sharing the opening of the northbound main lane of the I-45 HOV lane with you soon,” she said.