Pilot Program To Test All-Electronic Tolls On Newport Bridge

NEWPORT, RI — The Rhode Island Bridge and Turnpike Authority is considering going cashless on the Pell Bridge in Newport. In the coming weeks, the department will pilot an electronic-only tolling system on one side of the bridge.

The test will happen over the course of four weeks on the side of the bridge heading into Newport, starting Feb. 14. No cash or credit card payments will be accepted. Instead, all drivers will be directed through lanes for E-ZPass or mail payments, requiring the closure of some toll booths. Signs will remind drivers not to stop to keep traffic flowing.

A similar program was put in place in both directions during overnight hours last March due to the coronavirus pandemic, which still applies.

Under the all-electronic system, tolls will be collected using the already-existing open-road technology. The sensors read E-ZPass transponders, or for drivers who do not have one, a bill is mailed to the address on file for the vehicle's registration. The toll amount is the same amount as if the toll was paid by cash or card at a toll booth.

Tolls can be paid by mail, at the dropbox at the Jamestown RITBA office, online at www.ezpassritba.com, or over the phone Monday through Friday from 9a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-877-743-9727. To make the process easier, the department encouraged drivers to sign up for E-ZPass, which allows users to manage their account and pay for tolls online.