E-ZPass usage increasing at area bridges

MORRISVILLE - The Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission says E-ZPass collections accounted for 62.2 percent of toll collection in 2007, a new high-water mark for the Commission's electronic toll collection system. E-ZPass usage by customers cuts down on congestion at the Commission's toll plazas by processing vehicles more rapidly, reducing commuting time for travelers.

E-ZPass has been in place for more than two years at the Milford-Montague, Delaware Water Gap (I-80) and Portland-Columbia bridges as well as several other bridges to the south.

Because the electronic system processes up to 1,000 cars per hour compared to 400 cars per hour using the manual cash lane system, increased E-ZPass usage reduces the overall congestion of Commission bridges for all commuters. The Commission is also taking additional steps to maximize the capabilities of electronic toll collection technology. The Commission will implement open road tolling on the I-78 Toll Bridge and Delaware Water Gap (I-80) Toll Bridge, which will allow customers with E-ZPass to bypass traditional toll plazas by traveling through an electronic array at normal highway speeds, further reducing congestion and travel times.

"The level of penetration of E-ZPass among our customers has greatly exceeded our projections," said Frank G. McCartney, Executive Director of the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission. "Through the use of technology, we are improving the quality of life of our customers by reducing travel times and congestion. E-ZPass has proven to be a win-win for the Commission and area residents."

Motorists who do not already have E-ZPass may apply by calling 1-800-872-5061 or visiting www.ezpassdrjtbc.com .