Golden Gate Bridge District Begins Process Of Eliminating Toll Collectors
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) - A key committee of the Golden Gate Bridge District Board voted Thursday to begin the process of cutting toll collectors on the span to reportedly save nearly $2 million annually.
KCBS' Bob Melrose Reports:
The finance committee of the bridge board spent several hours over two days discussing the issue, before voting eight to three to eliminate the toll collectors' positions. The full board will address the matter on Friday.
Nearly three dozen toll takers would lose their jobs under the cost saving proposal, likely by September of 2012.
Toll collector Marsha Brand-Horse spoke at the meeting, telling the committee that she does more than collect money.
"I am the friendly face that greets each driver as they enter my lane after they've crossed the bridge, and before they enter San Francisco," said Brand-Horse. "Very often I'm asked directions and I then supply the driver with a map. This is truly a welcoming that is remembered in a very positive way."
All commuters would eventually have to have FasTrak, or find other ways to pay the toll.
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