OT: Open source voting machines and other gizmos (was Re: Comcast and SORBS)

[Bob George]

Ben Jackson wrote:

> On Tue, 23 Nov 2004, Jeff Kinz wrote:
>>On Tue, Nov 23, 2004 at 11:23:10AM -0500, Gordon Marx wrote:
>>>On Tue, 23 Nov 2004 11:15:26 -0500, Bob George
>>>>> [...]

For what it's worth, I made the suggestion with tongue planted firmly in 
cheek. As a recent transplant to the state from AZ, I find the entire 
idea of tolls incomprehensible. I don't think it CAN be explained in a 
way that makes sense!

> All your concerns can be addressed by the current existing system. The
> system is rated at 55MPH (FL uses the same system and I think their
> toll speed limit is 40MPH) the problem is just that  MA has decided to
> make triply-sure they get their pound of  flesh. Don't blame the system,
> blame the beancounters.

The overhead versions on the Garden State Pkwy (NJ) work at 80MPH, based 
on my ah... informal testing.

> I do need to get off my rear and buy one of those, I'm sick of stopping at
> the Tobin to pay tolls.

I used the SpeedPass web page to order mine from NJ. Up to 4 of either 
type are free. They charge $20 apiece here I understand.

> Also, you'll never eliminate the human system, as their are luddites and
> out-of-state users who use our highways and don't have the transponder.

Get the humans out of traffic! It's INSANE! Has anybody done a study on 
how much the area loses due to lost productivity due to toll-induced 
delays? And why not *gasp* forego collection DURING SNOW STORMS? Sheesh!

Ah well, now we have drifted (pardon the pun).

- Bob