Poland's A4 highway to become toll-free as gates are removed

Drivers on Poland's A4 highway will soon experience a smoother journey as toll gates on the state-run section between Wrocław and Gliwice are being dismantled. Although drivers of passenger cars and motorcycles stopped paying tolls on this stretch in July 2023 following a legislative change, the physical toll stations remained in place. Now, the General Directorate for National Roads and Motorways (GDDKiA) has initiated the process to remove them entirely.

The GDDKiA's Katowice branch has opened bids for the demolition of toll collection plazas on the Silesian section of the A4, including facilities in Żernica, Bojków, Ostropy, Kleszczów, and Łany. The goal is to eliminate not only the gates but also all associated infrastructure, restoring the highway to its full standard and improving traffic flow. The project aims to have the demolition work completed within seven months after the necessary documentation and permits are secured.

This move marks the end of an era for the Wrocław-Gliwice section, where drivers previously paid 16.20 Polish złoty for the approximately 164-kilometer journey. While passenger cars and motorcycles will now enjoy a toll-free experience, tolls will continue to apply to vehicles exceeding 3.5 tons and buses, which use the e-TOLL system managed by the National Revenue Administration.

Looking ahead, another significant change awaits drivers on the A4. The concession for the Katowice-Kraków section is set to expire in March 2027. Following this expiration, this segment is also anticipated to become toll-free for cars and motorcycles, further enhancing travel convenience on this major Polish highway.