Mar 30, 2008 12:48 pm US/Eastern
U-Turn Ramp Opens To Fast Lane, E-Z Pass Users
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
The U-turn ramp located at the Allston-Brighton toll plaza opened to drivers with Fast Lane and E-Z Pass transponders on Sunday.
The $1.3 million ramp was initially built for taxis and buses traveling to Logan Airport and the South Boston waterfront, but according to Mass. Pike officials, the ramp has failed to attract a large number of users.
"I am confident that the U-Turn lane has the capacity to handle both the commercial traffic it was designed for as well as all other drivers who can benefit from quicker access by using the Turnpike," says Transportation Secretary Bernard Cohen.
Officials say the ramp will help alleviate congestion on streets in the Back Bay, Chinatown, South Boston and the South End.
Large trucks and drivers without transponders are still not allowed to use the ramp.
Two-axle passenger vehicles with FAST LANE will be charged $2 to use the ramp. E-Z Pass customers will pay $2.50. Taxis and two-axle trucks are charged $2.50, and three-axle buses $4 -- the same price they would pay if they went through Exit 20 tolls twice while turning around.
(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
