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 • How does E-ZPass work?• When will E-ZPass be operational at the Delaware Memorial Bridge? • Why is the Authority installing E-ZPass on the Delaware Memorial Bridge? • Will the E-ZPass system be accepted in all 13 toll lanes? • Can I use my E-ZPass tag at other facilities, even if I opened my account at the DRBA? • Does the Authority save money with E-ZPass? How does E-ZPass work? E-ZPass is an electronic toll collection system that eliminates the need for cash transactions in the toll lanes. Instead, E-ZPass customers receive a small electronic device, or “tag," that identifies the vehicle and corresponding account information. As the customer approaches the toll lane, the tag sends out a radio signal that is read by a receiver above the lane. The information is processed and the appropriate amount is deducted from the customer’s account. The transaction only takes a fraction of a second, which allows vehicles to pass through the tolls without stopping. When will E-ZPass be operational at the Delaware Memorial Bridge? E-ZPass should be operational in July 2001. The DRBA will have an entirely new toll collection system installed that integrates E-ZPass technology. The prototype testing is currently under way in the toll plaza. Why is the Authority installing E-ZPass on the Delaware Memorial Bridge? The installation of E-ZPass is fundamentally centered around improved customer service, convenience and cleaner air. E-ZPass should reduce the congestion that occurs during the morning and afternoon rush hours as well as during the busy summer and holiday weekends. In addition, the continuous flow of traffic should result in cleaner air by reducing traffic congestion at the toll plaza. Will the E-ZPass system be accepted in all 13 toll lanes? Yes, E-ZPass will be accepted in all 13 lanes. The Authority will identify two or more of these lanes as dedicated “E-ZPass Only" lanes. Traffic volume and the percentage of E-ZPass capable vehicles will determine the mix of “dual-mode" (manual collection or E-ZPass) and “E-ZPass Only" lanes. The E-ZPass Only lanes will be identified by signs and flashing overhead yellow lights. Can I use my E-ZPass tag at other facilities, even if I opened my account at the DRBA? Yes, your E-ZPass tag is valid on all interagency (IAG) toll facilities displaying the E-ZPass logo. These facilities include the Delaware Turnpike, Delaware SR 1, Delaware River Port Authority, New Jersey Turnpike, Pennsylvania Turnpike (East of Exit 18), Garden State Parkway, Atlantic City Expressway, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Port Authority of NY/NJ, New York State Thruway, New York State Bridge Authority, Massachusetts Turnpike, The Peace Bridge (an international crossing near Buffalo, NY), and the West Virginia Parkways. Other toll agencies will be deploying interoperable E-ZPass technology in the near future, including the Maryland Transportation Authority, the Burlington County Bridge Commission and the New Hampshire Turnpike. Note that some roads in Virginia, South Carolina and Florida have electronic toll collection, but they do not accept E-ZPass. Does the Authority save money with E-ZPass? E-ZPass is not a cost-saving measure for the Delaware Memorial Bridge. The cost for the installation of the new manual and electronic toll system will be approximately $6 million. The annual operating costs for the ETC system will exceed $1 million. |
