N.H. Plan Would Allow More E-ZPass Discounts

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everal members of the New Hampshire state Executive Council are lining up behind a plan that would eliminate tokens on New Hampshire turnpikes and create a 10% to 30% discount for E-ZPass users, including commercial drivers, the Associated Press reported.

The council is responsible for setting the toll rates on the state’s turnpike system. Until the rate is set, the state’s transportation department cannot begin marketing the E-ZPass transponders, which allow a driver to pass through the toll gates with-

ut stopping, AP said. The transponder records the vehicle passing through the toll gate and automatically deducts the fee from the driver’s account.

Some of the options being discussed include a potential 25-cent toll increase at the five major toll booths in the state, eliminating tokens by Jan. 1, and establishing a 30% discount for car drivers using E-ZPass and a 10% discount for commercial drivers, AP reported.

The plan is intended to generate enough money to fund turnpike maintenance and some capital-improvement projects. New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch has asked the Council to reach a consensus, quickly so E-ZPass can be up and running by July, AP said.

Transportation Commissioner Carol Murray said the E-ZPass system would keep traffic moving smoothly at toll booths and reduce air pollution, AP reported.