Citing "lackluster service," the department will be seeking a new technology provider.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is ending its contract with its toll road operator, reports R.A. Schuetz, citing "unnecessary challenges" for users and a recent error that resulted in overcharging some drivers.
Marc Williams, TxDOT executive director, said "We take the responsibility of providing a quality and trusted customer experience very seriously, and regret the impact and inconvenience these past many months of lackluster IBM service have had on our toll road users."
The operator, IBM, disputes the charge, saying in a statement that TxDOT failed to fulfill obligations on its end, and that "[d]espite TxDOT’s failure, IBM’s performance and the system IBM has implemented far exceed operational requirements anticipated when the contract was signed to the benefit of Texas motorists."
The state is now using an "emergency contract" to provide toll services until a new operator is selected. "TxDOT assured customers that the interim technology providers would make sure that information remained secure and that the billing system would remain accurate, timely and usable. TxTag is not charging late fees during the transition."
FULL STORY: We simply could not move forward': TxDOT cuts ties with toll road operator
Texas Would Need $24 Billion to End Highway Tolls
Texas politicians are wondering how much it would cost to remove tolls from hundreds of miles of roads around the state. Though the political cost of tolling is high, the actual cost, it turns out, is higher.
Utah to Test Personalized Road Usage Pricing
A pilot program will use GPS-enabled devices to track driving habits, allowing cities to use the data to create road pricing fee structures based on hyper-local and individual driving needs.
Oregon Toll Road Proposals Raise Cost, Equity Concerns
The state’s plan to implement tolls to reduce congestion and promote alternate transportation modes is facing some backlash as critics argue the revenue shouldn’t fund road expansion projects.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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