Daily News Briefs, December 11, 2023

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Transurban: We're Engaged In WestConnex Interchange Congestion Response

The Guardian reports, Transurban “has spoken out amid community anger over the bungled opening of Sydney’s $3.9bn Rozelle interchange as it finds itself in a [disagreement with a suburban Sydney mayor] over who should fix the mess. Transurban used its first public comments since the “spaghetti junction” opened on 19 November to defend its conduct in the wake of widespread commuter frustration, particularly among people who live on the Balmain peninsula.” Mayor Darcy Byrne claims Transurban has been “hiding in the shadows” and owes the public access to Westconnex traffic metrics in light of the severe congestion that has accompanied the interchange opening. Although the firm’s senior executives declined to be interviewed, a spokesperson told the newspaper Transurban is supporting state officials contending with the traffic problems. The statement also pointed to education and communication efforts Transurban undertook to prepare motorists for the interchange opening. The Guardian notes that New South Wales transportation officials have attempted to deflect criticism aimed at the company, stating that current WestConnex design problems predate Transurban involvement in the project.

Australia New South Wales P3 & Privatization Transurban

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NY Times Offers "Tips For Avoiding Surprise Bills From Electronic Toll Roads"

The New York Times has advice for frequent travelers who may not be familiar with the fact that most US toll roads — “about two-thirds of the 6,600 miles of roads” managed by IBTTA members — no longer accept cash payments. Stakeholders, including E-ZPass Group executive director PJ Wilkins, explain how electronic tolling works, give advice on avoiding pay-by-plate late fees, and provide updates on transponder interoperability development. The newspaper also tackles the issue of how to pay rental car tolls.

AET (All-Electronic Tolling) E-ZPass ETC Systems Interoperability Rental Car Tolling Uni Transponder (CFX)

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DRJTBC Expansion Joint Repair Makes I-78 Lane Closures Necessary

The Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission (DRJTBC) announced that, weather permitting,  removal and replacement of a “problematic” expansion joint on an I-78 westbound overpass will require day- and nighttime lane closures through early Wednesday morning, December 13. The structure is located along DRJTBC’s 4.2-mile-long segment of interstate immediately east of the I-78 Toll Bridge in New Jersey. “The work will entail some excavation, concrete removal and placement, installation of a compression seal, and other related tasks.” Since the highway will be reduced to two lanes between 7:00 AM and 9:00 PM, and just one lane overnight, the commission warned drivers to expect traffic slowdowns or backups.

Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission (DRJTBC) Highway-Tunnel-Bridge Maintenance New Jersey Pennsylvania

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These are just some of the toll industry developments TRN is following.

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