seattle 520 toll

Understanding the Seattle 520 Toll Bridge

The State Route 520 Bridge, officially the Governor Albert D. Rosellini Bridge, is a floating bridge that connects Seattle to Medina, Washington, across Lake Washington. A toll is charged to drivers using the bridge, and it’s crucial to understand how it works to avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smooth commute.

What is the 520 Toll?

The 520 toll is a fee charged for crossing the State Route 520 floating bridge. The purpose of the toll is to help fund the bridge’s construction and maintenance costs, as well as related transportation improvements in the region. The toll varies depending on the time of day, day of the week, and whether you have a Good To Go! account.

How Does the 520 Toll Work?

The 520 bridge uses all-electronic tolling, meaning there are no toll booths. Instead, cameras and sensors identify vehicles as they cross the bridge. If you have a Good To Go! account, the toll is automatically deducted from your account balance. If you don’t have an account, a bill is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle. The “pay-by-mail” rate is higher than the Good To Go! rate.

How Much is the 520 Toll?

The toll rate varies. During peak hours, the toll is higher than during off-peak hours. Weekends typically have lower toll rates. For current toll rates, it is best to refer to the official Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) website. You can get detailed information about the toll rates and payment options from resources like Wikipedia’s SR 520 Bridge page.

How to Pay the 520 Toll?

There are several ways to pay the 520 toll:

• Good To Go! Account: This is the most convenient and cost-effective option. You can create an account online or by phone, and the toll is automatically deducted.
• Pay By Mail: If you don’t have a Good To Go! account, a bill will be mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle. This option incurs a higher toll rate.
• Pay Online: You can pay the toll online using the “Pay By Plate” option on the Good To Go! website. This is a good option if you occasionally use the bridge and don’t want to create an account.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I pay the 520 toll in cash?

No, the 520 bridge uses all-electronic tolling, so cash payments are not accepted.

What happens if I don’t pay the 520 toll?

If you don’t pay the toll bill, you will receive a late fee. Repeated failure to pay can result in further penalties, including registration holds on your vehicle.

How do I create a Good To Go! account?

You can create a Good To Go! account online at the official Good To Go! website or by phone.

How can I check my 520 toll bill?

If you receive a toll bill in the mail, it will include instructions on how to view and pay the bill online. You can also check your bill online by entering your license plate number on the Good To Go! website.

Is there a senior discount for the 520 toll?

There is not a general senior discount for the 520 toll. However, there are programs available for low-income residents.

Summary

The Seattle 520 toll is an electronic toll used to fund the operation and maintenance of the SR 520 bridge. Using a Good To Go! account is the easiest and most cost-effective way to pay the toll. Understanding how the toll works and the payment options available is important for all drivers using the bridge to avoid unnecessary fees and penalties.