For Immediate Release

November 9, 2009

Contact: Helene Florio

(413) 562-6454

KNAPIK  AND KANE SPONSOR FAST LANE GIVEAWAY AT HOLYOKE MALL AT INGLESIDE

WESTFIELD:  State Senator Michael R. Knapik, 2^nd Hampden and Hampshire District and Representative Michael Kane, 5^th Hampden District are sponsoring a collaborative event at the Holyoke Mall at Ingleside on Wednesday, November 18, 2009 for a FAST LANE transponder distribution.  From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., staff from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, FAST LANE Division, will set up just outside SEARS on the lower level at the Customer Service counter so you can pick up a Transponder in the Holyoke Mall.

“Thanksgiving is not only a one day event with thousands of people taking to the highways for a day, it also marks the beginning of the “snow bird” travel of many of our residents to the south for the winter months.  The FAST LANE transponder can move you quickly through traffic at toll stops throughout New England and is accepted by all the states with compatible equipment to EZ Pass.”  “This is the last time this year, 2009, that the FAST LANE pass will be available at the Holyoke Mall.  If you come on the 18^th, it will be ready for use in time to travel for Thanksgiving” said Knapik.

“The timing of this free distribution will assist local families with FAST LANE accounts as they are readying to head off for the holidays.  This distribution is open to any and all people who use the Turnpike. Massachusetts residency is not required.   I am pleased to help being this service to Western Massachusetts” said Rep. Kane.

“I drive the Turnpike as much or more often than most people.  The Transponder is a life saver in heavy traffic” said Knapik.  “I am pleased to offer this opportunity for people in my District and throughout Western Massachusetts to have a chance to turn in old equipment, and sign up for new.  With fewer locations throughout the commonwealth to pick up a FAST LANE transponder is person, we thank the management of the Holyoke Mall for providing space for this public service event.”

If you are tired of being stuck in long lines on the Turnpike, use this opportunity to pick up a new TRANSPONDER.   FAST LANE personnel will be available to answer all your questions regarding new equipment.  A $20 deposit is due at the time which will allow use of the transponder on the whole road and not just exits 1 through 6.   The transponders are FREE.

Be sure to bring your vehicle registration and driver’s license information when you come.  Be prepared with your credit or debit card and/or a check.  Parking is suggested near the Red Entrance or near Package Pickup for Sears.  Just walk through to the Mall’s Customer Service counter at the lower level.

Forms will be available to make any account changes.  Activation of the new Transponders will take up to 72 hours.  For further information on the FAST LANE program, please visit the website at www.massdot/state.ma.us/highway/fastlane.   Detailed account questions can be addressed to 1-877-627-7745.

For any questions you can contact Helene Florio at 413-562-6454.

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