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For Immediate Release
RMTA Successfully Transitions to All-Electronic Tolling
No cash, no stopping on Powhite Parkway, Downtown Expressway, Boulevard Bridge and all ramps
Richmond, VA – The Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority (RMTA) has proudly announced the transition to all-electronic tolling (AET) on the Powhite Parkway, Downtown Expressway, Boulevard Bridge and all ramps, effective Saturday, February 28, 2026.
The first day of operations was seamless, marking a major milestone in the Authority’s efforts to modernize transportation and improve the travel experience for motorists.
Under the new system:
- Drivers can no longer 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.
- At the Downtown Expressway, motorists can pay via AET. However, on this roadway, 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.
About AET
- 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 modernizes RMTA’s toll collection process, improves traffic flow and enhances 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.
RMTA thanks the public for their patience and cooperation during this transition and remains committed to monitoring system performance and providing support to ensure continued success of the AET system. For toll rates, FAQs and more visit www.rmtaonline.org and the RMTA AET web page.
Media Contact:
Tia Freeman, Strategic Communications Manager
Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority
tia.freeman@rmtaonline.org | 804-807-4686
www.rmtaonline.org