Highway officials want them to know the changes are legit, especially in light of the unpaid-toll scam texts that continue to circulate.
Read the full article at the Philadelphia Inquirer
Summary of Pennsylvania Turnpike’s Open Road Tolling and Scam Alerts
Quick Overview
The implementation of open road tolling (ORT) on the Pennsylvania Turnpike has transformed the way tolls are charged, leading to more frequent, smaller charges on drivers’ bills. While this change aims to enhance efficiency, it has also coincided with a surge in scam texts regarding unpaid tolls, prompting officials to clarify the legitimacy of the new billing system.
Key Points
- Open Road Tolling Implementation: ORT has been in effect since January 5, 2023, east of Reading and on the Northeast Extension, resulting in more frequent charges for drivers.
- Billing Changes: E-ZPass and toll-by-plate users will see smaller, more frequent charges on their statements or invoices, respectively.
- Scam Text Alerts: The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission warns drivers about ongoing scam texts regarding unpaid tolls, emphasizing that legitimate communication will always occur via mail or official E-ZPass accounts.
- Cost Implications: Despite the changes, 84% of E-ZPass trips and 74% of toll-by-plate trips will not exceed last year’s costs by more than $1, even with an annual 5% toll increase.
- Future Developments: ORT is expected to expand west of Reading by the end of 2027.
Detailed Breakdown
Open Road Tolling Changes
The Pennsylvania Turnpike has adopted ORT, which allows for electronic toll collection every time a vehicle passes beneath toll gantries, eliminating traditional toll booths. According to Marissa Orbanek, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, this transition means that drivers will see more line items on their bills, as each trip under a gantry is now billed separately rather than at infrequent toll plazas.
Billing Structure
For the majority of travelers using E-ZPass—approximately 86%—the new system translates into smaller, more frequent charges. Toll-by-plate users will receive invoices in the mail reflecting these changes. Orbanek stated, “For smaller trips, you might not see a difference,” indicating that the impact varies based on travel patterns. The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has assured that even with the annual toll increase, most drivers will not experience significant increases in their toll expenses.
Scam Text Alerts
In parallel with the ORT rollout, the Turnpike Commission has reported a rise in scam texts claiming to be from the Turnpike regarding unpaid tolls. Orbanek emphasized, “We will never text you about unpaid tolls,” reinforcing that legitimate billing occurs through mail or E-ZPass accounts. The Commission has received tens of thousands of reports about these scams, which have targeted drivers across various states, including New Jersey and Delaware.
Cost Implications
Turnpike officials have indicated that the new tolling system will not significantly increase costs for most drivers. They noted that 84% of E-ZPass trips and 74% of toll-by-plate trips would either cost the same or incur an increase of no more than $1 compared to last year. This statement aims to alleviate concerns about potential financial burdens resulting from the transition to ORT.
Notable Quotes & Data
- “There are more smaller transactions,” said Marissa Orbanek, explaining the billing changes.
- “If you’re getting a text, that is not the Pa. Turnpike,” Orbanek reassured drivers regarding scam communications.
- “E-ZPass users save about 50% compared to toll-by-plate customers,” highlighting the benefits of using E-ZPass.
Context & Implications
The shift to open road tolling represents a significant modernization effort by the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, aiming to improve traffic flow and efficiency. However, the concurrent rise in scam activity poses challenges for driver trust and safety. The Commission’s proactive stance in warning drivers about scams is crucial for maintaining public confidence in the new tolling system. As ORT expands, continuous communication and education will be vital in ensuring drivers understand the changes and can differentiate between legitimate toll notifications and scams.