Virginia Wants to Toll Interstate 95 Near North Carolina Border

Today, Governor Bob McDonnell announced the first step forward in implementing tolling along Virginia's border. An application has been submitted to the Federal Highway Administration to toll Interstate 95 near the North Carolina Border.

At the direction of the Governor, Secretary of Transportation Sean T. Connaughton submitted the tolling request under the Interstate System Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Pilot Program. Virginia currently has approval to toll Interstate Route 81 under that Pilot Program and is requesting to switch that authority to Interstate Route 95.

According to a state press release, the Governor has written to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood urging a positive response to Virginia's request.

"The Virginia Department of Transportation estimates that tolling along Interstate 95 can generate between $30 to $60 million annually, if tolls are $1 to $2 per axle. According to state officials, all revenues generated through tolling would be used exclusively in the Interstate 95 corridor. Revenues would first be directed towards making a number of safety improvements throughout the corridor, and then making improvements to the pavement conditions and infrastructure. Once these improvements are made, the Commonwealth could begin making capacity improvements where needed."

What's your thoughts on the subject Loudoun County? Are you in favor of tolls on I-95? Or could you care less? Let us know -- comment below.

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