Toll Road Fines, Fees and Tiffs

* Stephen Burgess (Letters, Dec. 17) made a statement that Transportation Corridor Agencies directors Linda Lindholm and I advocate allowing toll road users to break the law and not pay their fines. Let me set the record straight.

I supported the TCA restructuring of toll road fines with one exception. For first-time offenders, I believe we should charge for their violation, fees for administration costs and also include information about our FasTrak program. First-time offenders must pay their required fines but not the additional $25 for their first offense, which could be as little as a 25-cent violation.

We spend over $2 million a year to promote the toll roads. For many, toll roads are a new experience and can create some confusion. So let’s treat our first-time customers as well as all our FasTrak and cash customers with respect and courtesy. However, for those patrons who choose to violate the rules, I supported implementing stiffer fines and tougher requirements so we can recoup the losses we have incurred.

CHRISTINA SHEA

Former TCA director

Irvine

* Ever since the San Joaquin Hills toll road opened, I have avoided using it because of the sign that reads “Exact Change Required.” I had no idea what the exact change was. I still don’t know and would not know what to do if I arrived at the unattended toll booth short of one quarter or one dime.

This is what makes scofflaws of honest drivers who suddenly realize they don’t have “exact change” and have to go through the lane for transponders. I would like to use the toll road, but until I know what the “exact change “ is, I’ll be going on the freeway.

I would like to suggest some form of the system used on the Maine Turnpike. There you receive a card when you enter that lists all exits and the fare required for each. You choose your exit and pay when you leave at an attended toll booth (which will even give you change!).

JEANETTE LAMBERT

Laguna Woods

* Re “New Cross-Border Tiff Over Tollway,” Dec. 12:

I agree with the Riverside County transportation officials’ idea to pursue condemnation of the Express Lanes. It is about time something is done to eliminate this parasite on users of the Riverside Freeway. The OCTA has been ignoring this issue for far too long, hence their “recoiling” and “anger” at the Riverside officials’ suggestion.

I use the 91 on a regular basis, at various times and days. Yes, I do use the Express Lanes on occasion, however I wouldn’t consider myself a “willing, happy” customer the California Private Transportation Co. would have you believe we all are. I gladly would exchange the money I spend (about $10 a month) toward the government seizure of this worsening debacle.

CURT BUTZ

Huntington Beach