RMTA to Launch All-Electronic Tolling on Powhite Parkway, Downtown Expressway and Boulevard Bridge February 28

For Immediate Release

RMTA to Launch All-Electronic Tolling on Powhite Parkway, Downtown Expressway and Boulevard Bridge February 28

What drivers need to know to prepare for the transition

Richmond, VA – The Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority (RMTA) has announced it will transition to all-electronic tolling (AET) on the Powhite Parkway, Downtown Expressway, Boulevard Bridge and all ramps on Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Beginning that day, drivers will no longer be able to pay with cash, including coins, on the Powhite Parkway, Boulevard Bridge and all ramps – tolls will only be collected via E-ZPass or Pay-By-Plate.

Exception: At the Downtown Expressway, cash will also 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 cash, no stopping 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.

To learn more and to view toll rates, traffic advisories related to AET construction, a map, frequently asked questions and other information, visit www.rmtaonline.org. You may also follow RMTA on Facebook, LinkedIn, X and Instagram.

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.

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