Keeping Traffic Moving: The Toll Taker

If you think your job as a planner is tough, thank your stars that you're not a toll taker.

1 minute read

December 25, 2005, 9:00 AM PST

"The Maryland Transportation Authority calls toll collectors "ambassadors." In fact, they are among its most disrespected public employees, and thanks to E-ZPass, they probably won't even be that for long. They drive to work in traffic that, as soon as they start their shift, people will blame on them. They stand for eight hours half-exposed to the elements, breathing exhaust so thick it blackens the windows. All this for a salary starting at $23,000.

...Exchanging Christmas cards Thursday in the administration building of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, one collector called out, "Everybody who's been hit by a boat, raise your hand!" Three arms, ostensibly bruised by boats too wide to clear the collector's window, shot up."

Thanks to PreservingtheAmericanDream listserv

FULL STORY: In Job With Little Comfort, Toll Taker Brings Joy

Saturday, December 24, 2005 in The Washington Post

Transportation Maryland

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Use Code 25for25 at checkout for 25% off an annual plan!

Get 25% Off Your Subscription

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.