A NH Department of Transportation image of the Exit 10 northbound toll booth that leads to Industrial Drive.

MERRIMACK — Ushering in 2022 comes with a bonus for drivers who frequent Exit 10, the Industrial Drive exit off the Everett Turnpike — toll collection ends both northbound and southbound three hours before 2022 begins.

The much-appreciated holiday season gift comes courtesy of state legislators, who voted to remove the Exit 10 toll plazas during their budget negotiations.

Instead of collection windows and EZPass lanes, motorists will see a series of traffic barrels and signs guiding them toward the far right lane of the two plazas, according to state Department of Transportation program specialist Richard Arcand.

“Motorists are advised to proceed slowly through the toll plaza areas,” Arcand said, adding that plans are in the works for the removal of the plazas. The DOT will issue advisories once the time frame for the removal project is determined.

Dean Shalhoup may be reached at 594-1256 or dshalhoup@nashuatelegraph.com.