A couple years ago in 2013 the Golden Gate Bridge decided to close the cash lanes and kick off a FasTrak only bridge in order to keep movement and flow of traffic steady. The influence of the Golden Gate Bridge had lead to the decision of seven California state-owned Bay Area Bridges, Carquinez, Benicia, Antioch, Richmond, Bay, San Mateo, and Dumbarton bridge in joining the FasTrak only movement. The CalTrans toll takers and the government agency say 200 of them will be affected when the toll lanes are eliminated. A $4 Million dollar contract for an all-electronic tolling system was given the green light by the metropolitan transportation commission. The commissioner Randy Rentschler, mentions, "We have enough FasTrak customers where cash toll payers are kinda getting in everybody's way." Drivers must pay with FasTrak only and those who do not have FasTrak photos will be taken and sent a fine in the mail. This will apparently save time and money however, a civilian comments, "everythings being automated...the way you save money is by release of the people." A toll worker shrugs her shoulders when interviewed by a reporter when asked about how she felt on the issue. They will be starting with the Carquinez to test it out and eventually the Bay Bridge last.
No comments:
Post a Comment