TOLL ROADS IN CALIFORNIA

The various interrelated socioeconomic factors that contribute toward the current trend toward tolls in California are discussed and include the deteriorating infrastructure, the limited revenue, public opinion, and state and federal legislation. Automatic vehicle identification, the most promising new technology emerging in the toll industry is discussed, as well as toll plaza design. Issues that require careful consideration are reviewed including the issue of privacy, uniform standards for the new technology, and discount/debit/credit systems for AVI users. Orange County toll roads are reviewed and their unique features are highlighted.