Why the Maine Turnpike Changed the Exit Numbers 20 Years Ago

For an entire generation of drivers, the Maine Turnpike numbering system seems like it's always been that way. Rather than worry about pure exit numbers like you'll find in other New England states, Maine uses mile markers on its most prolific highway. But it hasn't always been that way.

The Old School Turnpike Method

For a very long time, the Maine Turnpike operated like several other paid turnpikes across the country. Drivers who wanted to use the convenience of the road would stop at a booth before entering the highway, grab a ticket from the operator, and then pay a fee to exit the highway depending on how far they traveled.

But as Maine's popularity amongst tourists began to grow, so did the problems with that system. Dishing out a ticket to every driver was both wasteful and time-consuming. It led to traffic snarls and road rage. Beyond that, confusion began to erupt over the duplicate exit numbers on the turnpike and Maine's second busiest highway, I-295.

Maine Decides to Clear Up The "Confusion"

In 2004, Maine decided it was time to follow 37 other states across the country, and move from a planned numbering system to exits based on mile markers. Travel experts believed it would help motorists have a better understanding of where they were, as well as how long it took to travel between exits and rest stops.

But it wasn't easy. Maine had to re-designate an entire stretch of road. Where the Falmouth spur currently exists, the Maine Turnpike split into I-495. That split became a headache for drivers visiting Maine, unsure on whether they should continue on the turnpike or transition over to I-495.

Bye Bye I-495

Rather than have multiple highways seemingly switch designations without much reasoning, Maine decided to simplify things in 2004. The entirety of the Maine Turnpike would be I-95, essentially eliminating I-495.

Additionally, where I-295 had transitioned into the Maine Turnpike in Falmouth, I-295 would simply continue on until Augusta to make maps, travel, and understanding easier for those not familiar with the roads.