DENVER (AP) Colorado plans to add another tolled express lane on Interstate 70 near Idaho Springs.

The Denver Post reports the $70 million project west of Denver will include a 12-mi. (19-km) zone where construction began July 15.

Officials said the new westbound express lane will mirror an eastbound lane that opened in 2015.

The lane is expected to open in early 2021 and will extend from the Veterans Memorial Tunnels to the U.S. 40 exit at Empire Junction.

Officials said the construction will widen portions of the highway to accommodate the narrow lane, which will revert to a shoulder during off-peak hours.

The Colorado Department of Transportation will set varying toll rates for the lane.

Democratic Gov. Jared Polis said the toll lanes are "temporary solutions" for Highway 70.

For more information, visit denverpost.com.

Today's top stories

Buffalo Looks to Improve, Protect Ralph Wilson Park

VIDEO: New App Increases Speed, Accuracy of Checking Grade Stakes

Make Eliminating Jobsite Distractions Company Safety Goal

Reconstruction of Frank J. Wood Bridge in Maine Under Way

Webuild Ready to Rebuild Collapsed Baltimore Bridge

VIDEO: Komatsu Holds Demo Days at Cartersville Customer Center

ABC: Over Half of March State Construction Unemployment Rates Down From a Year Ago

Topcon Expands Retail Presence With New Topcon Solutions Store in Spokane, Washington