The Cape May County Bridge Commission announced Wednesday that the new electronic E-ZPass tolling system will go live over the next eight weeks on the commission’s five bridges along scenic Ocean Drive in Cape May County.
The implementation of E-ZPass will occur sequentially, with the Ocean City-Longport Bridge being the first one to go live on or about April 30. The Middle Thorofare Bridge will be next on or about May 7, followed by Grassy Sound on or about May 14, Corsons Inlet on or about May 21 and Townsends Inlet by June 25.
Signs at each bridge will alert drivers if E-ZPass is active. At the same time, all bridges will continue to be manned by bridge tenders, who also serve as toll collectors.
Although E-ZPass will be available on all of the bridges, cash and tickets will still be accepted as well. Even those vehicles with E-ZPass transponders installed will have the option to make payment with pre-paid bridge tickets versus E-ZPass transactions. Tolls will remain $1.50 on the five bridges.
“One of our key goals is to make the driving experience on scenic Ocean Drive more pleasant and convenient for our residents and visitors,” Cape May County Freeholder Will Morey said. “E-ZPass will go a long way towards accomplishing this goal as it will serve to reduce congestion and make the payment process easier.”
Freeholder Director Jerry Thornton noted, “The implementation of E-ZPass is something that a lot of people have been requesting for a long time and we are happy to be able to provide this service.”
The Cape May County Bridge Commission, along with the freeholder board, worked closely with the South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA) on the E-ZPass project.
“We are very happy to bring this technology to the commission bridges,” said North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello, who also serves as chairman of the Cape May County Bridge Commission. “The partnership between the freeholders, SJTA and the commission is what made this project possible.”
The SJTA has collaborated on the project by building toll lanes, installing equipment and systems and by helping with the processing of E-ZPass transactions, said SJTA Executive Director Stephen F. Dougherty.
“The commission and freeholders deserve credit for their foresight in considering the needs of the motoring public. The installation of E-ZPass will provide a more enjoyable and safe traveling experience for those using Ocean Drive in Cape May County,” Dougherty said.
For additional information, contact the Cape May County Bridge Commission at (609) 465-7806.
