Fast Lane
Along the Mass Pike, 60 percent of overall riders use Fast Lane, while 40 percent pay with cash. However, during rush hour, the percent of drivers using Fast Lane often jumps into the upper-80s.
Updated 21:49, September the 18th, 2008
Pike authority plans toll collector layoffs
Officials say the 100 job cuts will save the agency $10M
The Massachusetts Turnpike Authority is planning to lay off 100 toll collectors in the next 12 to 18 months, which it says will save the agency $10 million.
It’s unclear how those layoffs will break down between full-time and part-time employees primarily due to a “convoluted” process the Pike inherited from the previous administration, according to Turnpike spokesman Mac Daniel. The job cuts will be considered based on seniority and an employee’s option to contest his or her dismissal.
Some managers will also be laid off through the plan.
The Turnpike currently employs 310 full-time toll collectors and 131 part-time toll collectors. A full-time toll collector makes on average $71,000 a year, though salaries can run as high as $90,000 annually with overtime.
A message left for the union representing the Pike’s toll takers was not returned.
The announcement comes as the Turnpike continues to persuade riders to pay with Fast Lane transponders rather than cash. The agency will likely cut the number of cash lanes over time, which has already included changing some lanes that accept cash and transponders to Fast Lane only.