The switch took effect east of Reading, a city in southern Pennsylvania, and on the Northeast Extension on Sunday, January 5, at 00:01.

ORT allows motorists to travel at highway speeds under overhead gantries equipped with technology to process tolls via E-ZPass or Toll By Plate, eliminating the need for toll booths.

The system is designed to enhance safety and efficiency by reducing lane switching and congestion at entry and exit points.

Gantries for the western section of the turnpike are currently under construction, with completion expected by January 2027.

A new toll schedule also came into effect, standardising rates to a consistent per-mile fee.

The new system transitions vehicle classification from weight-based to an axle-and-height-based automated vehicle classification (AVC) model.

The change aligns with national standards and is expected to improve predictability for users.

Mark Compton, CEO of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, said: “This represents a commitment to providing safe, convenient, and nonstop journeys.”

The $600m investment in planning, infrastructure, and tolling system upgrades is expected to save the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission US$25m annually in maintenance and operating costs once the conversion is complete.

Under the new toll structure, approximately 50% of passenger car trips will see a lower rate, and most commercial vehicle trips will experience minimal changes.

A 5% toll increase, part of an annual adjustment tied to the Act 44 financial plan, also came into effect.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike is one of the largest tolling systems in the USA, supporting over 550,000 daily customers.