AC Expressway Goes Cashless Sunday

The Atlantic City Expressway will transition to a cashless tolling system starting Sunday (January 4), marking a significant change for drivers in New Jersey. The new system will use electronic tolling gantries to read E-ZPass transponders or capture license plate images for billing, eliminating the need for cash payments. The South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA) has been preparing for this shift with a $159 million project that includes installing 11 gantries along the expressway.

Drivers without E-ZPass will be billed through the Toll-By-Plate system, which involves a 100% surcharge and a $1 administrative fee, making the cost to travel the expressway about $14, compared to $6.30 for E-ZPass users. According to The Inquirer, failure to pay the bill will result in additional fees and potential penalties, including fines and suspension of vehicle registration.

The transition to cashless tolling aims to improve traffic flow and safety by allowing drivers to maintain speed without stopping at toll booths. The SJTA has been encouraging drivers to sign up for E-ZPass through various channels, including social media. As reported by 42Freeway, the cashless system will not add extra charges for E-ZPass users, as billing will remain based on entry and exit points.

The Atlantic City Expressway is the first major toll road in New Jersey to implement cashless tolling, setting a precedent for the Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike, which are expected to follow suit. The NJ.com reports that the expressway's cashless toll system was initially delayed to avoid construction during the busy summer months. The SJTA plans to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday (January 5) to celebrate the launch of the new system.