Beginning this spring, if you live in the Puget Sound area of Washington, chances are, you’ll be affected either regularly, or periodically by the new tolling that will take place on the 520 bridge that connects Seattle with the Eastside. Of course there are alternates – taking the  I-90 bridge, but I’m betting that it won’t be a walk in the park either once the tolling on 520 starts.

Now what does this have to do with organization and productivity you ask? Great question. Here’s a prime example of where a little planning and organization can save you time, money and stress. Consider implementing a few of these ideas:

1. Chunk errands, tasks or meetings to minimize trips across the bridge.

2. Plan in advance to conduct a meeting via video call, conference call, or another alternate means of communication if you can accomplish the same goal without the travel.

3. Plan to travel “off peak” when possible. This will save you time (less traffic) and money (lower tolls during off peak hours). Schedule meetings, plan errands and outings so that you can avoid rush hours and other higher traffic/toll times. Be familiar with when those times are.

4. If you’ll be a regular on the 520 bridge, sign up for a Good-to-Go account. Its a pre-paid account and your account will be debited each time you cross. The alternate is to receive a bill for your fees, but then you have to remember to pay the bill. Again, if you know you will travel regularly, the Good-to-Go pass seems the simplist way to go. In fact, beginning today, if you sign up for a Good-to-Go account online before April 15th, you’ll get a free $10 in tolls. Learn more here.

5. Eliminate unncessary trips – make sure that when you cross, you have what you need to accomplish your tasks on the other side of the lake. If you’ll cross for a meeting, see who else you might be able to meet with while you’re over, as opposed to waiting until later in the week, only to have to cross again. If you’re going for just one event, destination, or errand, see what else you can accomplish “on the other side” while you’re there anyway.

We’d love to hear what you plan to do to lesson the impact of this new toll on your life. Please share!