LIRR commute on track; Cash tolls return to George Washington Bridge, Lincoln Tunnel
NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- Amtrak officials announced they completed work on a switch just east of Penn Station in time for the Long Island Rail Road's commute Monday morning.
There had been some concern that it would not be done on time, but fortunately, the work was completed.
Amtrak officials say no disruptions are anticipated for the evening rush hour.
Meantime, cash collection for tolls resumes for the George Washington Bridge and Lincoln Tunnel.
It had been suspended for seven months.
Approximately 100 toll collectors will be back on duty for the next 18 months, as construction continues to transition both crossings from older tolling systems to more sophisticated, modern, all-electronic tolling technology.
To ensure the safety of the toll collectors at these crossings, all workspaces such as booth interiors and common areas will receive enhanced cleanings.
Employees will also receive PPE and disinfectants to use while in their booths.
Related: Cash tolls suspended on GWB, Lincoln and Holland tunnels
Cash toll collection at the Lincoln Tunnel and George Washington Bridge will cease permanently by mid-2022, when the construction and installation of new tolling technology is expected to be completed.
At the Holland Tunnel, cash toll collection ended March 22, and the tunnel will remain cashless permanently as the installation of the modern technology will be completed in the next 60 days.
The Port Authority upgraded to an all-electronic tolling system, which uses overhead gantries in place of toll lanes and booths, at the Bayonne Bridge in February 2017, at the Outerbridge Crossing in April 2019, and at the Goethals Bridge in September 2019.
Related: Port Authority set to approve cashless tolls at GWB, Lincoln and Holland tunnels
Any discount programs that require in-person administration by toll attendants, such as the carpool discount program, will be reinstated at the upper level of the George Washington Bridge and the Lincoln Tunnel while those toll booths are staffed.
E-ZPass customers continue to benefit from various discounts by using tags registered in New York and New Jersey.
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