Kapsch to install truck-tolling system in Rhode Island, US

TINNews |

Kapsch TrafficCom has secured a contract from Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDoT) to design, install, operate, and maintain its new statewide truck tolling system.

The system to be deployed will be a truck-only tolling programme and will be part of Rhode Island’s larger ‘Rhodeworks’ initiative, which aims to boost the economy by upgrading transportation infrastructure.

Kapsch TrafficCom North America president Chris Murray said: “Kapsch is excited to be selected by Rhode Island to provide their statewide truck-only toll system, and we look forward to working with RIDoT and our local partners to successfully deliver this system and help make the Rhodeworks program a reality.”

Kapsch’s new All-Electronic Tolling (AET) system will use a single-gantry setup across 13 bridge and ramp toll points.

This installation will enable free-flow of traffic, which means that trucks can pay cashless tolls while travelling at highway speeds.

Toll fees will be collected by either by the vehicle’s on-board E-ZPass transponder or by video licence plate capture for drivers without an installed unit.

Video tolling will be enabled by the Kapsch Vehicle Detection and Classification sensor (nVDC). When nVDC is on the gantry, it can classify the vehicle’s size so that only trucks are tolled.

"This installation will enable free-flow of traffic, which means that trucks can pay cashless tolls while travelling at highway speeds."

The Kapsch nVDC does not need additional sensors to be installed in the pavement, which will reduce maintenance costs for Rhode Island.

The AET system will also allow RIDOT to generate the revenue needed to repair and maintain Rhode Island’s bridges and roadways.

Rhode Island Department of Transportation director Peter Alviti said: “We look forward to breaking ground in the fall and getting the first tolling locations operational by the end of this year.”

Toll fee will not be collected from cars and small trucks under this programme.

For managing this project, Kapsch will use its field office in Rhode Island and work in coordination with its design-build subcontractors Aetna Bridge Company and CDM Smith.

Kapsch will also use services of several local MBE subcontractors during the design, construction, and operational contract phases.

The first two toll sites are expected to become operational and generate revenue by the end of this year.

The full toll system project, including all 13 toll sites, is expected to generate revenues in early 2019.