FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 26, 2019

REMINDER:

Next Generation Tolling Implementation Underway

Toll Booth Removal Project Begins at Hatem Bridge

BALTIMORE, MD – As part of the Maryland Transportation Authority’s (MDTA) next generation electronic toll collection system, the MDTA continues to replace existing toll-lane hardware and software at all toll facilities. In May, the MDTA started this process at the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895).  Modifications have begun at the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) and Francis Scott Key Bridge (I-695).  Due to these changes, customers are highly encouraged to pay close attention to lane signals in the toll plaza.  Work will result in 24/7 and intermittent toll lane closures.

In addition to the above facilities, motorists will see the following changes at the Bay Bridge (US 50/301), Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial/Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton Bridge (US 301) and John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway (I-95) as work proceeds:

• The traffic lights on the island behind each toll booth will be removed permanently.
• The customer feedback signs behind each toll booth will be replaced.
• The overhead lights above each toll-lane will no longer show flashing yellow for dedicated E-ZPass^® lanes. The lights will show green for open lanes and red for closed lanes. The overhead signs will continue to indicate which lanes are       E-ZPass^® Only lanes versus lanes also accepting cash.
• New overhead signage will be installed after all toll lanes are converted.

In addition, the toll booth removal project begins at the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge (US 40).  One toll lane and the associated toll booth at the US 40 Hatem Bridge are closing as a step toward the October implementation of cashless tolls. Motorists will be able to use the remaining three toll lanes and booths available. A cash toll lane will remain available at the Hatem Bridge plaza, and E-ZPass is accepted in all open toll lanes.  Weather permitting, the toll booth closure will be completed by the morning of Thursday, Aug. 8.

Note:  Two toll lanes and the associated toll booths at the I-695 Key Bridge toll plaza on both the Inner and Outer Loops were closed on July 15 as a step toward the October implementation of cashless tolls.

To sign up for email/text alerts or view real-time traffic camera images on MDTA roadways, visit mdta.maryland.gov.  For real-time updates on major incidents follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/TheMDTA.  Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/TheMDTA. 

The MDTA thanks its customers for their patience and reminds them to Stay Alert So No One Gets Hurt!