Backup at Richmond-San Rafael Bridge stops dozens of drivers

RICHMOND, Calif. (KGO) -- An unusually long backup at the Richmond San Rafael Bridge Toll plaza caught dozens of drivers off-guard Friday.

On Fridays in the summer, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission runs the Richmond Bridge with three toll takers instead of four.

Traffic is historically lighter on these days, but Friday something changed.

"Could be people going back to school," said Randy Rentschler. "Often, folks don't work on Fridays, so you see a little change. So we're able to optimize our toll takers, but look, it's impossible to say why traffic is up today and last week other than just to speculate right now."

The MTC said it will look at video from Friday morning and will make any necessary adjustments.

The agency reminds drivers that using Fast-track is an easy way to avoid lines at the tolls.