HARRISBURG, PA — The first phase of the Pennsylvania Turnpike‘s bold leap into the future of toll collection has gone live, introducing the groundbreaking open road tolling (ORT) system developed by TransCore. With the eastern section of the 552-mile highway now operating under this cashless scheme, the transformation aims to deliver faster, safer, and more environmentally conscious travel for millions of drivers.
The ORT system replaces traditional toll plazas with high-tech overhead gantries that read E-ZPass RFID transponders at highway speeds and capture license plate images for “Toll By Plate” users. This innovation not only eliminates the need for slowing down or stopping at toll booths but also marks a paradigm shift in how tolling is integrated into modern transportation infrastructure.
Safety First, and It’s Working
Safety is at the heart of this overhaul. Early findings show crash rates have plummeted by 76% on Turnpike sections where ORT pilots were conducted. Removing toll plazas—a notorious source of traffic bottlenecks and dangerous stop-and-go scenarios—has dramatically reduced chokepoints and accidents. The Turnpike has already begun demolishing outdated plazas, paving the way for smoother and safer travel.
Mark Compton, CEO of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC), highlighted the milestone as the result of years of behind-the-scenes work. He explained that operations have been modernized to meet customer expectations for seamless, nonstop travel and described it as the next step in positioning America’s First Superhighway as a leader in efficiency and safety.
Economic and Environmental Wins
The advantages don’t stop with safety. The PTC estimates that once fully deployed statewide in 2027, the ORT system will save $25 million annually in operational and maintenance costs—money that can be funneled back into infrastructure improvements. On the environmental side, the shift is expected to slash CO2 emissions by an additional 7%, building on the 44% reduction achieved since the Turnpike went fully electronic in 2021.
This environmental footprint improvement adds weight to the argument for more widespread adoption of tolling innovations. By eliminating idling engines at toll barriers and ensuring smoother traffic flow, ORT demonstrates how technological advances in infrastructure can support sustainability goals.
Setting the Standard for U.S. Highways
TransCore’s Infinity tolling system isn’t just a win for Pennsylvania—it’s a model for modernizing America’s aging road systems. “The PA Turnpike not only operates the nation’s original superhighway but is also our longest-standing partner,” said Whitt Hall, President and CEO of TransCore. For over 85 years, the Turnpike has tested the limits of what’s possible in roadway innovation. This latest leap underlines Pennsylvania’s standing as a pioneer in transportation development.
The phased rollout is a blueprint for how other states can follow suit. Currently, Pennsylvania joins a growing list of regions leveraging open road tolling to foster economic growth, ensure driver safety, and promote environmental stewardship. While full implementation in the western portion of the state won’t be completed until 2027, the progress made underscores an undeniable shift in transportation norms.
What This Means for Drivers
For everyday drivers, this translates into more predictable travel times, reduced vehicle wear and tear, and a vastly improved overall experience on the road. Whether you’re an E-ZPass user or relying on toll-by-plate billing, the system is designed to cater to convenience without sacrificing accountability.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike’s success in this transition is an important reminder that infrastructure isn’t static—it evolves. And with this transformation, it’s clear that the future of travel lies in seamless integration, smart technology, and unwavering commitment to public safety and efficiency. Whether other states rise to this challenge remains to be seen, but the bar has been set remarkably high.
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