Daily Talker: Move To All-Electronic Tolling Means No More Free Ride

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation is moving towards all electronic toll collection on bridges, tunnels, and the Mass Pike. That means some drivers who got a free ride, won't anymore.

The WBZ I-Team has learned a toll of at least 40 cents will soon be added to the ramps at the West Newton interchange of the Mass Pike. Currently, drivers could get on at exit 16, then get off at exit 17 in Newton for free.

This comes as MassDOT moves closer to all-electronic toll collection on the Tobin Bridge. The first toll booth has already been removed, and as soon as July 23, you'll no longer be able to use cash on the bridge.

Vehicles without EZPass will have a photo of their license plate taken, and a bill will be mailed to the registered owner.

"It will make toll collection more efficient, more reliable. And in the end will increase the net revenue from the toll proceeds," said MassDOT Commissioner Frank DePaola.

What do you think of the move to all-electronic tolling? Are you looking forward to the end of toll plaza backups, and will this encourage you to get an EZPass transponder? Share your comments below, and watch for them on WBZ News in the Morning from 4:30 to 7:00 a.m.