INDIANAPOLIS -- Drivers looking to skirt construction congestion on Indianapolis' north side will soon have a new option.

An eastbound express lane will be put in place by Monday on Interstate 465 west of Meridian Street in an effort to maintain three lanes of traffic in both directions during a major project to widen the highway, 6News' Derrik Thomas reported.

"The left lane of I-465 eastbound will be diverted into this express lane, where they will not be allowed to get off at Keystone (Avenue) or Allisonville (Road), nor will trucks be allowed," said Indiana Department of Transportation spokesman Will Wingfield. "If you are through traffic, this is a good option for you to consider."

Signs will be strategically placed to notify and warn drivers about the changes, and a 45 mph speed limit will be in place throughout the construction zone.

"That would definitely be a benefit for me from a traffic standpoint," said Ron Carr. "I think it's a great idea."

"I would get here quicker," said Lisa Guyer. "I'm off Meridian (Street) all the time. For me, it would be wonderful. "

The eastbound express lane is expected to be in place for about three months, while the entire $434 million project should be finished in about a year, adding one lane in each direction.

Wingfield said the express lane model was successfully used during construction on the Borman Expressway in northwest Indiana.