Golden Gate Bridge Will Switch To Automated Tolling In Early 2013
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) — Drivers who use the Golden Gate Bridge will experience a major change early next year, when human toll takers will be replaced by electronic tolling.
"The message is that all-electronic tolling is coming," said bridge spokesperson Mary Currie. She added that means that commuters, occasional users as well as tourists will have new options to pay a toll beginning in February.
One option is for drivers to open a FasTrak account. "I think that there are some perceptions that FasTrak is only for regular commuters that cross the bridge every day," Currie said. But she assured all drivers can sign up.
KCBS' Jeffrey Schaub Reports:
Another option for drivers is to open a pay-by-plate account, where toll-lane cameras would record your license plate number and can charge your credit or debit card each time cross. Drivers can also pay online or at special pay stations that will be located along the 101 corridor.
Currie addressed what this could mean for toll-bound traffic. "Confusion could abound," she said.
"It's a new program," Currie added, but ultimately said that traffic flow would improve.
The displaced toll collectors are reported to be either retiring or switching to other jobs at the bridge district.
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