Pennsylvania Turnpike Enhances Tolling with Open-Road System

Motorists traveling west of Berks County on the Pennsylvania Turnpike will soon experience significant changes due to the installation of an open-road tolling system. The new equipment has been successfully installed at milepost 276.2, situated between the Reading and Lebanon-Lancaster interchanges. Additionally, installations are underway at milepost 250.3, located between the Lebanon-Lancaster and Harrisburg East interchanges.

The project aims to implement open-road tolling across the central and western stretches of the turnpike by 2027. While the equipment is being set up now, it will not be activated until the official launch date. Mark Compton, CEO of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, expressed enthusiasm for the transition, stating, “We are excited to continue our preparations for 2027’s systemwide launch of open-road tolling.” He emphasized the importance of modernizing operations to enhance customer experience and safety.

Transition to Open-Road Tolling

The Pennsylvania Turnpike has already begun transitioning to the open-road tolling system in areas east of Reading and along the Northeast Extension since January. This innovative system allows vehicles to be charged tolls electronically while maintaining highway speeds, eliminating the need for drivers to stop or slow down at toll plazas. Overhead structures known as gantries will replace traditional toll booths, streamlining the toll collection process.

As vehicles pass under these gantries, the system processes E-ZPass or toll-by-plate transactions. This approach significantly reduces confusion and the need for lane switching that often accompanies conventional tolling, leading to a smoother driving experience. Officials stress the importance of properly mounting E-ZPass transponders and keeping accounts updated, as these devices will now be read more frequently and at higher speeds.

Motorists are advised that while they can dispute toll charges, failing to follow required procedures may result in receiving a toll-by-plate invoice at a higher rate. The transition to open-road tolling will also involve the removal of toll booths and the reconfiguration of interchanges, which will enhance safety by improving sight lines and reducing distractions during entry and exit.

Cost Savings and Operational Impact

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission anticipates that open-road tolling will yield significant financial benefits. According to officials, the new system is projected to save approximately $25 million annually in interchange maintenance and operations costs, alongside an additional $50 million in yearly operational savings compared to traditional toll collection methods.

Demolition of the Morgantown toll plaza commenced in September and is expected to conclude in 2026. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize the tolling infrastructure across the Pennsylvania Turnpike, ensuring a safer and more efficient travel experience for all motorists. As these changes unfold, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission remains committed to enhancing its operations in line with evolving customer preferences.