Following several unexpected delays, both the north- and southbound I-45 HOV lanes are open as of the morning of Monday, Oct. 31. The $2.6 million project funded by the Texas Department of Transportation added one northbound and one southbound lane on I-45, stretching 17.6 miles between FM 1960 in northern Harris County and South Loop 336 in Conroe. The southbound lane opened to commuters Oct. 17 and the northbound lane opened the morning of Oct. 31. “We are thrilled that we were able to bring this project to fruition and the added mobility that it will offer HOV motorists during peak travel times will aid in reducing congestion in the area,” TxDOT spokesperson Deidrea George said. Both HOV lanes are open and free to commuters 24/7.