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Halifax-Dartmouth Bridge Commission Seeks to Eliminate Tokens By 2008 |
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Written by Staff
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Monday, 24 July 2006 |
The Halifax-Dartmouth Bridge Commission has submitted an application to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (UARB). The application requests to eliminate tokens and seek approval for the updating of the Bridge Commission's Rules and Regulations. Tokens have been used as a toll payment method by the Commission since 1963 but the popularity of tokens has decreased dramatically throughout North America.
Since the introduction of MACPASS in 1998, token usage has reduced from 62% of total traffic to 22%. Cash payments have also reduced from 38% to 27% of total traffic. Traffic volume in 2006 is expected to exceed 32 million vehicles.
There are currently over 75,000 transponders in use, and MACPASS represents over 50% of the Commission's monthly traffic. On average, 43 new customers sign up for MACPASS each day.
Bridge Commission General Manager & CEO Steve Snider said, "The Commission feels that the elimination of tokens is in the best interest of bridge users," says Snider. He added, "The elimination of tokens will increase MACPASS use and subsequently reduce toll plaza congestion. As a result, safety will be improved, auto emissions will be reduced and overall the service provided by the Commission will be enhanced."
To assist in the transitioning from tokens to MACPASS, the Commission proposes to eliminate the $30.00 transponder deposit. Current MACPASS accounts will be credited $30.00 for each existing deposit.
These changes to the vehicle classification system, the elimination of tokens and updated Rules and Regulations are requested to be effective early in 2008. |
