URGENT UPDATE: Major changes are underway on the Pennsylvania Turnpike as the installation of an open-road tolling system has been completed between milepost 276.2 and the Lebanon-Lancaster interchange. This crucial development was confirmed by turnpike officials earlier today, signaling a significant shift for motorists traveling west of Berks County.
The new tolling infrastructure is being actively installed at milepost 250.3 between the Lebanon-Lancaster and Harrisburg East interchanges. This project is set to progress toward the Ohio border over the next year, with the full launch of open-road tolling scheduled for 2027. Motorists will not see the system activated until then, but preparations are in full swing.
“We are excited to continue our preparations for 2027’s systemwide launch of open-road tolling,” stated Mark Compton, CEO of the Pennsylvania Turnpike. He emphasized the importance of modernizing operations to enhance the customer experience, ensuring a safer and more efficient travel experience across the turnpike.
The transition to open-road tolling is already in effect east of Reading and on the Northeast Extension, initiated in January. This innovative system allows drivers to pass through toll points at highway speeds without needing to stop or slow down. Overhead structures known as gantries will replace traditional toll booths, processing E-ZPass and toll-by-plate transactions seamlessly as vehicles drive beneath them.
With this new system, confusion and lane switching associated with traditional tolling will be greatly reduced. Properly mounting your E-ZPass and maintaining updated accounts is crucial, as transponders will be read more frequently and at high speeds. Motorists should be aware that charges can be disputed, but failure to follow required procedures may result in receiving a toll-by-plate invoice billed at a higher rate.
As part of this modernization effort, toll booths will be removed, and interchanges will be reconfigured to promote safer travel. This removal will eliminate obstacles, enhance sight lines for drivers, and reduce stress and distractions when entering and exiting the highway.
The demolition of the Morgantown toll plaza began in September and is projected to be completed by 2026. Officials anticipate substantial financial benefits from the open-road tolling system, estimating $25 million in annual savings on interchange maintenance and operations, along with $50 million in yearly operational savings compared to traditional toll collection methods.
As this project unfolds, motorists traveling on the Pennsylvania Turnpike should stay informed about these changes that promise to reshape their travel experience. The evolution of toll collection is not just a logistical improvement; it represents a commitment to enhancing road safety and efficiency for all users.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the Pennsylvania Turnpike continues to modernize its operations.
