After years of preparation and construction, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has opened the Southern Beltway. The $800 million project links with the already operating Findlay Connector at this point, which will give Washington County residents and others a direct shot to Pittsburgh International Airport and other points north from Southpointe. The opening happened in phases Friday, with the entire highway now completely drivable. Some ramps at the Interstate 79 Interchange are still closed as work continues in that area. Drivers will encounter three toll points along the route, where two-axle vehicles will pay $1.30 with an EZ Pass, or $2.60 via the state’s toll-by-plate system. This means it will cost regular cars just under $4.00 to take the whole highway with an EZ Pass, and just under $8.00 without one. Construction will continue on Interstate 79 at the Southern Beltway ramps between Bridgeville and Southpointe until work is completed on that highway around Memorial Day of 2022.