Illinois Tollway builds 'living laboratory' to test new technology

PARK RIDGE, Ill. (WLS) -- The Illinois Tollway is building what it calls a "living laboratory" to test new technology.

It will be along the Tri-State near the Touhy Toll Plaza.

Officials say they could use the site to test technology, including an I-Pass that would confirm when tolls are paid and new apps that would allow customers to pay tolls with a smartphone while driving.

The test site is the first of its kind in the nation. It's scheduled to open next year.