Understanding the Garden State Parkway
The Garden State Parkway is a toll road that stretches 172.4 miles through the state of New Jersey, from the New York State line at Montvale to the southernmost point at Cape May. It is one of the busiest highways in the United States and is a primary artery for travel throughout the state.
The parkway is maintained and operated by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, which also operates the New Jersey Turnpike. The speed limit on the Garden State Parkway is 65 mph, with a minimum speed limit of 45 mph. The parkway has a total of 14 toll plazas, with the first being located at the Bergen Toll Plaza and the last at the Cape May Toll Plaza.
Payment Methods on the Garden State Parkway
The Garden State Parkway accepts a variety of payment methods at its toll plazas, including cash, electronic toll collection, and credit cards. Cash tolls are collected at the entrance to the exit ramp, and exact change is required. If you do not have exact change, you can use one of the automatic change machines located throughout the toll plaza.
Electronic toll collection is also available on the Garden State Parkway. The E-ZPass system is the most common electronic toll collection method used on the parkway. E-ZPass is a prepaid electronic toll collection system that allows drivers to pay their tolls automatically without stopping at a toll booth.
Credit cards are accepted at some toll plazas on the Garden State Parkway. The credit cards accepted include Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. However, it is important to note that not all toll plazas accept credit cards, and drivers should be prepared to pay with cash or E-ZPass.
Benefits of Using E-ZPass on the Garden State Parkway
Using E-ZPass on the Garden State Parkway has several benefits. First, it saves time. Drivers with E-ZPass do not have to wait in line at the toll plaza, which can save significant time during peak travel periods.
Second, it is more convenient. With E-ZPass, drivers do not have to worry about carrying cash or exact change. The toll is automatically deducted from their account, and they are sent a statement at the end of each month.
Finally, E-ZPass can save drivers money. E-ZPass users typically pay lower toll rates than cash customers. The savings can add up over time, especially for frequent travelers on the parkway.
Alternatives to Driving on the Garden State Parkway
While the Garden State Parkway is a convenient way to travel through New Jersey, there are alternatives for those who do not want to drive on the toll road.
One alternative is to take local roads. While this may take longer than driving on the parkway, it can be a more scenic route and can allow travelers to see more of the state.
Another alternative is to take public transportation. New Jersey Transit operates a number of bus routes throughout the state, including several that run parallel to the Garden State Parkway. Taking a bus can be a more environmentally friendly option, and it can allow travelers to avoid the stress of driving in heavy traffic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Garden State Parkway is a toll road that accepts cash, electronic toll collection, and credit cards. E-ZPass is a convenient and cost-effective way to pay tolls on the parkway, and it is recommended for frequent travelers. However, drivers should be prepared to pay with cash or credit cards if they do not have E-ZPass. Alternatives to driving on the parkway include taking local roads or public transportation.