First-day rush causes system glitches 

GOLDEN MEADOW, La. – Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Secretary William D. Ankner on Monday temporarily suspended tolls on the new La 1 Bridge in Leeville because of system glitches that caused slow service and long lines for customers trying to set up accounts.

"I apologize for the long lines at the Customer Service Center in Golden Meadow and for the traffic backups on La 1 today," Ankner said on Monday, the first day tolls went into effect on the new four-mile bridge over Bayou Lafourche. "We had more customers on our first day than we anticipated. We are working with our software vendor around-the-clock to resolve the errors that caused some of today’s problems. Meanwhile, we need drivers to do their part by setting up their GeauxPass accounts before the tolls are reinstated."

A computer glitch that would not allow the processing of cash payments combined with an initial rush of customers by phone and at the Customer Service Center to cause system slowdowns and long lines for customers.

Ankner said he expects to make an announcement by Tuesday on how long the tolls will remain suspended. DOTD will give drivers at least 24 hours’ notice before resuming tolls.

While the tolls are suspended, the GeauxPass Customer Service Center will remain open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to set up GeauxPass accounts. The Customer Service Center is located at 1821 South Alex Plaisance Boulevard (Hwy. 3235) in Golden Meadow. Drivers also can set up accounts by calling 1-866-662-8987 or by visiting www.geauxpass.com.

Because of the toll suspension, no tolls will be charged for crossing the La 1 Toll Bridge on Monday. GeauxPass customers who already crossed the bridge on Monday will have their accounts credited for the toll. One-time customers will receive a free pass for future use. One-time customers are advised to keep their receipts for tolls paid on Monday.