TransCore to convert UDOT’s I-15 Express Lanes to electronic tolling

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has selected TransCore, Harrisburg, Pa., to convert the existing I-15 Express Lanes decal system to an electronic, radio frequency identification (RFID)-based payment system. This type of system is the first in Utah.

The contract encompasses system design, installation, integration, Encompass 6 multiprotocol RFID readers and the new RFID-based eZGo Anywhere HOT/HOV transponders. The contract is valued at approximately $16 million, which includes a nine-year maintenance option. Installation is scheduled for completion by fall 2010.

The new electronic payment system will enable UDOT to dynamically adjust the pricing based on traffic conditions. Motorists pay only for their actual usage of the lane instead of the fixed fee for a monthly decal. This system will help UDOT to further reduce congestion and travel times in all lanes.

The dynamic pricing system is built around a traffic-condition algorithm. Software collects traffic flow data from the express and general-purpose lanes to calculate a price that optimally matches demand. The algorithm will use data provided by UDOT’s TransSuite traffic management system, supplied by TransCore under a previous contract.

“TransCore’s traffic engineering experience, particularly within Utah, and our knowledge implementing every aspect of electronic toll collection systems, from system integration to manufacturing RFID technology, allows us to speed the implementation process for UDOT,” said John Simler, president of TransCore’s Intelligent Transportation Systems Group.