|
Act 44 limits the number of toll facilities that may be constructed on I-80 to no more than ten facilities over the 311 miles of I-80 in Pennsylvania. The toll collection facilities will be mainline plazas with express E-ZPass (electronic toll collection) facilities and cash lanes, rather than ramp toll facilities as found on the existing Turnpike system.
The process for locating the toll plazas begins with a traffic and revenue study to identify a range of potential locations. These locations will then be examined for suitability of construction based on factors such as vertical geometry (the steepness of the grade), horizontal geometry (the straightness of the road), the presence of sensitive environmental features, and the availability of utilities. As the locations are studied and refined, the PTC will coordinate closely with the public to share this information and receive additional feedback. The toll plaza location studies are anticipated to be completed by Spring 2008 and the PTC will host a series of public meetings seeking input on the potential locations.
With 59 existing interchanges, there will be, on average, one toll collection facility for every 5-6 interchanges, allowing many local trips to remain free. The PTC will offer discounts of 10, 15 or 20 percent to their commercial E-ZPass customers that meet established volume requirements for travel on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
- Toll rates on I-80 will be approximately equal to existing mainline Turnpike rates:
- Average 2010 car rate/mile (2 axle vehicle) = $0.08
- Average 2010 average truck/mile (5 axle vehicle) = $0.30
- Total state-wide trip costs:
- 2010 car rate = $25.00
- 2010 average truck rate = $93.00
- Tolls will increase 3% each year after 2009
E-ZPass uses radio frequency wave technology to pay your Turnpike tolls electronically. E-ZPass allows drivers to drive through designated E-ZPass lanes without having to stop. Express E-ZPass lanes are designed for travel at posted highway speeds. The toll gantry will extend over all four lanes of I-80. In addition, standard lanes for cash (stop and pay) and the E-Z Pass (at 5 mph) customers will also be constructed at each toll plaza facility. These facilities will be located to the outside of the express lanes and equipped with deceleration and acceleration lanes sufficient in length to meet safety criteria.
|
