tollgates

Tollgates are structures installed at the entrances or exits of tolled roads, bridges, or tunnels to collect a toll from users. They may consist of payment booths, barriers, gantries, or electronic sensor systems, and they may require stopping or allow continuous passage depending on the method used.

Historically, toll collection dates to ancient and medieval times, with turnpikes in Britain and elsewhere employing gates and tollhouses. The modern toll road system expanded alongside motorized transport in the 19th and 20th centuries, often operated by public authorities or private concessionaires.

Typical components include a toll plaza or lane, payment infrastructure (cash, cards, or account-based systems), barriers or gantries, and electronic readers. In many systems, vehicles are identified by transponders or license plate recognition to debit accounts or issue invoices.

Technologies range from traditional staffed booths to open-road or all-electronic tolling, where payment is collected automatically without stopping. Some tollgates use dynamic pricing or congestion charging to manage demand and reduce traffic, while others rely on pre-paid accounts.

Governance and economics vary by country. Toll revenue funds maintenance and capital debt for road projects and can influence traffic patterns and equity considerations. Internationally, systems include public authorities, private concessions, and cross-border interoperability through interoperable electronic toll programs.