The 1/6/2009 edition of THE WASHINGTON POST reported that MTA proposes changes that would require E-ZPass users to pay a $1.50 monthly service fee and $21 to buy transponders beginning in July 2009. There would be no toll increases for passenger cars but trucks and cars hauling trailers would be charged between $2-$13 more. "Public comment on the proposed changes will be accepted until Jan. 27, and the authority board is expected to act on them Jan. 29."
If any MD DCATZ members always wanted to obtain an E-ZPass now is the time to act and get a free transponder before the cost rises to $21. Remember that the Intercounty Connector will be a toll road.
Better yet, if they go through with this silliness, just cancel your MD EZPass and get one from the Seacacus Peace Bridge or one of the few remaining agencies without these "maintenance" fees.
Having such fees does little to encourage EZPass use. My family got EZPass because of the conveience it provides when driving up the I-95 corridor when we head up that way. However, we do not make such trips on a regular basis, such that chances are we will pay as much or more in maintenance fees each year than we will in actual tolls! If they go through with this, the first year after you get a transponder, you will pay 37 dollars just in fees, and 16 dollars per year after that assuming the maintence fee isn't worth it.
Will we probably keep our MD EZPass regardless? Yes. Is this a good idea in my opinion? No. I'd rather see across the board toll increases so those who use the toll roads on a regular basis, including those from out of state, pay more.
Let's not confuse MdTA with MTA. Two different agencies.