ELECTRONIC TOLL COLLECTION AT THE CARQUINEZ BRIDGE

This article describes a benefit-cost evaluation framework and procedure used to evaluate the FasTrak Electronic Toll Collection system at the Carquinez Bridge in the San Francisco Bay Area. The evaluation framework and procedures include: identifying goals and objectives, defining a temporal and spatial framework, conducting both a benefit-cost analysis and a sensitivity analysis, and evaluating the output. The authors conclude that the automated toll collection project should realize most of its objectives by providing: 1) a higher level of service for toll patrons, 2) facilitate traffic flow 3) reduce vehicle emissions and fuel consumption, and 4) increase the quantity and quality of data. However, a less-than-anticipated demand for automated toll collection use and operating cost reduction may not offset the initial capital investment.