PORTLAND (AP) – The Maine Turnpike Authority cleared the way Thursday for a new toll plaza on the highway’s southern end where E-ZPass users will be able to pay tolls while maintaining highway speeds.

“Knowing that major investments are necessary at the York toll plaza, we want to take full advantage of the latest technology to improve service to our customers,” turnpike authority Executive Director Paul Violette said.

“Highway speed toll collection will significantly enhance convenience to our customers and improve the efficiency of our operation,” Violette said.

Officials said the Maine Turnpike became the first highway in New England to offer electronic toll collection in 1997.

Highway speed toll collections systems are operating at 18 facilities around the country, including on the Pennsylvania Turnpike and three toll highways in New Jersey, officials said.

Replacing the York toll plaza, which was built in the early 1970s, is expected to cost between $32 million and $35 million.

Turnpike officials anticipate construction to be completed by 2010.