Infra Insight Blog : written by Nossaman LLP Infrastructure attorneys, covers infrastructure project delivery, including Public-Private Partnerships, Operations & Management Agreements, policy, and news.

• Email This
• Print
• Comments
• Trackbacks
• Share Link

The IBTTA is discussing the future of tolling existing interstate capacity in light of the Federal Highway Administration’s decision to reject Pennsylvania’s application to toll Interstate 80.

My opinion?

The political barriers to tolling existing interstate capacity are just as real and monumental as raising the gas tax. In the short to mid term the more likely scenario is an acceleration of the trend to toll new capacity within existing interstate rights of way. The Ft. Lauderdale I-595, the Ft. Worth North Tarrant Express, and the Dallas I-635 are all recent examples of blending existing nontolled interstate upgrades with new tolled lanes. I project many more such projects which will benefit all concerned with less political friction. In reauthorizing the highway program Congress should follow the recommendations of the National Surface Transportation Infrastructure Financing Commission and give the states more leeway to utilize this tool.

You can see what others have to say about it at the ITBBA’s blog Tolling Points.