The Colorado Department of Transportation is getting serious about enforcing penalties for I-70 mountain express lanes, and Idaho Springs is the early focus.

Enforcement will focus on the I-70 Mountain Express Lanes from Idaho Springs to U.S. 40 to start but soon serious penalties will be a reality everywhere, according to CDOT. 

“Starting Friday, July 21, motorists who drive unsafely in the Express Lanes on the I-70 Mountain Corridor will be issued fines known as civil assessment penalties," CDOT said in a press release.

For the past month, drivers have received mailed warnings for violations such as using the Express Lanes when they’re closed, weaving across the solid yellow line and driving in the lanes with an oversized vehicle.

As of July 21, the warnings will cease, and drivers will be mailed fines starting at $75 and increasing to $150 if not paid within 20 days of issuance, the statement said.

More than 5,000 warnings have already been issued to drivers, according to CDOT.