Pocono News Section

Plans To Toll I-80 Bring Out Opposition

Plans To Toll I-80 Bring Out Opposition - Monday, November 12, 2007 at 11:04PM EST

Reported by: Joe Holden
Monday, Nov 12, 2007 @11:04pm EST

KIDDER TOWNSHIP, CARBON COUNTY- The plan that would erect toll booths along Pennsylvania's busy Interstate 80 is sparking criticism. Residents across the state have had an opportunity to sound off on the proposal over the last seven days. Most say they're against it.

The idea to toll the roadway is part of a law known as Act 44. The money to be generated is earmarked for road and bridge repairs around the commonwealth. Revenue from tolls is expected to soar in the tens of billions of dollars over the next 50 years.

But truck drivers and every-day commuters told representatives from the Pa. Turnpike Commission, the plan is just another way to impose a tax.

The toll would mirror existing rates on the Northeast Extension of the turnpike.

There's no word on where the toll booths would be placed. Officials expect they'll appear every ten miles or so.

More public hearings are slated for the winter and spring.