The United States has a rich history with regard to the use of tolling. Throughout the nation, tolling has proven to be a viable and increasingly popular tool to fund major surface transportation infrastructure projects.
Most of the 62 U.S. toll agencies receive little or no federal or state funds to support their operations, yet on an annual basis, they generate more than $10 billion in tolls. That is equal to nearly one-third of the federal gas tax revenues collected each year, according to the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA).
The primary benefits of tolling are better, safer roads, less congestion, more predictable trip times and reduced need for taxes to pay for roads. Tolls are one of the funding tools that should be given serious consideration by state legislatures and Congress. Federal law currently prohibits the use of tolling on existing non-tolled lanes of interstate highways, yet if Congress granted states flexibility, states could choose tolling when it's the right option for their communities and constituents.
Many portions of the Interstate system are now more than 50 years old and in need of replacement or major repairs. Tolls have been an important solution to fund surface transportation projects in the State of Ohio. In fact, 10 projects worth $930 million were approved for funding last year that have a direct connection to the Ohio Turnpike, as a result of Governor John Kasich's Ohio Jobs and Transportation Plan.
These projects, which include the Cleveland Innerbelt Bridge, $273 million; I-75 Corridor, $271 million; and Lorain's State Route 57, $16 million; are being funded with bond proceeds that will be repaid by future Ohio Turnpike toll revenue. For more information and to see a complete list of the projects, please visit the Ohio Turnpike website.
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Richard Hodges
Executive Director
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