Miami-Dade Expressway Authority has accelerated a new phase of the MDX Advantage program to provide a discount for multi-axle vehicles, following meetings with key freight industry leaders.
The group included Jorge Rovirosa, Florida Stevedoring Inc.; Armando Varona, Seaboard Marine; John Salom, Salom Transportation; and Oscar Acharandio of PRO transportation; and Miguel Perez of Quality Container Transportation.
The MDX Board of Directors created a frequency discount program of up to 50 percent for multi-axle vehicles on all five of MDX’s expressways.
“We understand how important their work is to our community. This is freight friendly policy that encourages the use of our system to make as many turn around trips as possible and help keep trucks off our local streets while taking full advantage of the investment in the PortMiami Tunnel,” said Maritza Gutiérrez, MDX Board Chairwoman. The MDX press release stated:
“Beginning December 10, 2014 the SunPass rate for multi-axle vehicles will be capped at the three axle. Capping to the three axle rate will result in a lower toll making it possible for multiple trips for truckers. Essentially, these SunPass rates are lower than what they were prior to the implementation of Open Road Tolling on SR 836 and SR 112.
“To participate in the MDX Advantage discount drivers of multi-axle vehicles must have a SunPass account in good standing.
MDX will also initiate a program with local truck companies for distribution and assistance in the installation of free SunPass transponders.” “MDX’s Multi-Axle Frequency Discount Policy is a big win for the trucking community in Miami-Dade County,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. “The transportation industry plays a vital role in job creation and economic development in our community. As partners, our goal is to promote and protect our assets in a highly competitive marketplace.”
“The trucking community is a vital partner in the transportation of containers to and from PortMiami,” said Juan M. Kuryla, Director of PortMiami. “Nearly 16,000 vehicles travel to and from our port each weekday. Truck traffic makes up approximately 28 percent of this travel. The discount program reduction is a great incentive for truckers to continue using the expressway system within Miami-Dade designed to provide quicker access to the Port and improve traffic flow in downtown Miami. I commend MDX for their collaboration in keeping our industry competitive.”
In addition, MDX plans to announce details of a rebate program for all users in January. With this rebate, drivers can earn up to $30 each quarter depending on how often they drive the MDX expressway system. This rebate program is unique in the nation for any toll authority and is geared to providing frequent users a further discount. To register now for the MDX Advantage program, go online to www.mdxway.com.
