Pennsylvania Turnpike Plans To Be All-Cashless By Fall 2021
PHILADELPHIA (CBS/AP) -- After four years of testing, the Pennsylvania Turnpike says it plans to move ahead with a $129 million project to become a completely cashless toll system in two years, eliminating hundreds of toll collecting and auditing positions along the way. Turnpike chief executive officer Mark Compton says in a statement that they want to have the system completely cashless by the fall of 2021.
"Cashless tolling has been adopted by dozens of agencies across the United States because of the improved safety and mobility it provides," Compton said. "Everybody pays electronically, so there's no need to stop; everyone benefits from the convenience of uninterrupted travel. Plus, cash and E-ZPass customers no longer need to dart across tollbooth traffic to reach their lanes."
Toll booths will still be at some exit ramps until 2026 to record E-ZPass signals or photograph license plates so bills can be mailed to drivers.
The jobs of the 600 remaining toll collectors and toll auditors will be eliminated, but officials say they will have the opportunity to move into other turnpike jobs or to take classes at the turnpike's expense.
(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
