All-Electronic Tolling Coming to Powhite Parkway, Downtown Expressway and Boulevard Bridge

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

All-Electronic Tolling Coming to Powhite Parkway, Downtown Expressway and Boulevard Bridge

 This modern, no-cash tolling system requires no stopping, covers all ramps and offers lower-cost trips with E-ZPass.

Richmond, Va. — As previously announced, the Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority (RMTA) will transition to all-electronic tolling (AET) on its expressway system in early 2026. Construction is already underway for the transition, and once AET is fully implemented, drivers will no longer be able to pay with cash, including coins, on the Powhite Parkway, Boulevard Bridge and all ramps.

At the Downtown Expressway, cash will only be accepted from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Outside of those hours, tolls will be collected using E-ZPass, and if a driver does not have an E-ZPass, Pay-By-Plate will apply.

AET is a tolling system that allows tolls to be collected electronically with E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate when vehicles travel beneath an overhead structure known as a gantry. This change will modernize RMTA’s toll collection process, improve traffic flow and enhance roadway safety.

What drivers need to know:

• No stopping will be required: Vehicles will be detected using overhead equipment that reads E-ZPass transponders or license plates.
• Pay-By-Plate option: When drivers travel on the expressway system without E-ZPass transponders, a camera will capture images of their vehicles’ license plates, and the registered owners will receive statements in the mail.
• Get an E-ZPass for the most economical way to travel: Drivers are encouraged to obtain E-ZPass transponders for a lower-cost trip. For example, the E-ZPass rate for two-axles is $.90 on the Powhite Parkway and Downtown Expressway. For drivers who do not have an E-ZPass, the Pay-By-Plate rate is $2.
• Learn more: To stay up to date on RMTA’s AET project and to view toll rates, traffic advisories related to AET construction, a map, frequently asked questions and other information, visit org. You may also follow RMTA on Facebook, LinkedIn, X and Instagram.

“Moving to all-electronic tolling is an important step toward a safer, more efficient expressway system for the Richmond Region,” said Fahad Khan, director of operations for RMTA. “We encourage all customers to take action now—so they are ready before AET is installed.” RMTA will continue outreach efforts throughout the transition, including additional reminders, signage and public information campaigns to help drivers prepare.

About the Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority (RMTA)
RMTA is an independent authority and political subdivision that was created by an act of the Virginia General Assembly in 1966. RMTA owns and operates three roadways in the Greater Richmond Region – the Powhite Parkway, Downtown Expressway and Boulevard Bridge. For more information, visit rmtaonline.org.

Media Contact:
Tia Freeman, Strategic Communications Manager

Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority
tia.freeman@rmtaonline.org | 804-807-4686
www.rmtaonline.org