Automated license plate readers coming to Powhite Parkway in winter 2025

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The current Powhite Parkway toll system is set to be replaced by automated license plate readers, starting in winter 2025.

All-Electronic Tolling (AET) eliminates the need for toll booths and crash payments by using E-ZPass transponders and license plate recognition technology to collect tolls, according to the Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority (RMTA).

Transition to AET will reportedly begin with Powhite Parkway in winter 2025, and will be followed by the Downtown Expressway and Boulevard Bridge.

According to RMTA, the Powhite Parkway toll plaza currently has 20 lanes, 14 physical lanes and six open road tolling lanes, as of the time of reporting.

The Forest Hill interchange has a total of eight lanes to its on- and off-ramps to Powhite Parkway, and the Douglasdale ramps north of the James River have two unmanned lanes connected to the parkway, per transportation officials.

What happens if you don’t pay a toll in Virginia?

"AET provides a faster, safer, and more efficient driving experience," RMTA's website reads. "AET reduces congestion, minimizes environmental impacts, and improves traffic flow by allowing vehicles to travel without stopping."

While AET is being implemented on Powhite Parkway, cash will no longer be accepted, and drivers will pay tolls without stopping at toll point, and will be collected electronically via E-ZPass or Pay-by-Plate.

Despite this change, transportation officials said cash will be accepted at the Downtown Expressway during this said transition.