Since transitioning to electronic toll payment late Friday night, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation has not experienced any problems - and they want it to stay that way.
They therefore are asking drivers to prepare for this work week like they would for a winter storm - drive carefully, take it slow, leave extra time on the roads and consider public transportation. Monday's commute will be the first real test of the new open road tolling system.
"There is going to be inconvenience. Tomorrow is going to be heck of a lot different than Saturday and Sunday," MassDOT Highway Administrator Tom Tinlin said.
Officials have likened the traffic impact to a 22-day snowstorm where it snows during the morning and the afternoon commute. Massachusetts State Police urged motorists to leave early, keep their gas tanks full, and their cell phones charged.
Higher traffic volume is also anticipated on side roads like routes 9, 20 and 30.
MassDOT is asking drivers not to stop at the old toll booths, as there will be no one there to handle cash.
MassDot will be giving drivers who have not yet purchased an EZPass six months to get one. That means drivers won't be charged the higher rate per license plate until that time.
