Extensive tag testing is finally over as thousands of motorists are introduced to four new tolling gantries.

New technology for the new tolling gantries was operational from December 18, along with the removal of the toll booths at the southern end of the bridge.

Toll booths at the northern end of the bridge will begin mid next year.

“While the bridge has stood the test of time, we have made leaps and bounds in tolling technology and the time has come for a much needed upgrade,” Minister for Roads Duncan Gay said.

He believes all toll booths will be removed by the early 2018.

“When both toll plaza upgrades are complete by the end of 2018, motorists will benefit from simplified traffic movements into the city and onto the Western Distributor,” he added.

Removal of toll booths will free up the often congested road corridor of the bridge and make it modern and functional.

Also, the removal will enable continuation of the bus lane from York Street and create space for bus readiness bays, creating ease for commuters at the PM peak.

New pedestrian lifts and upgraded cycleway will be installed following this operation?