Dulles Toll Increases the Subject of Two Upcoming Meetings

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Dulles Toll Increases the Subject of Two Upcoming Meetings

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority will hold two more public meetings to solicit comments from the community regarding proposed toll rate increases to support the Dulles Metrorail Project and other Dulles Corridor transportation improvements. The proposal is to raise the rate at the main toll plaza from 75 cents to $1 in January 2010, to $1.25 in 2011 and to $1.50 in 2012.

According to an article in the Gainesville Times, "ramp rates will be increased from 50 cents to 75 cents in 2010. The 75-cent rate would remain in effect through 2012 but may increase in 2013, depending on circumstances. The current estimated cost of the Dulles Metrorail project is $5.25 billion cost for the first and second phases. Dulles Toll Road user fees are expected to generate 52.6 percent of the cost, or $2.76 billion. The federal government will kick in 17.1 percent – $900 million. Fairfax County's share is 16 percent or $845 million, and the Commonwealth of Virginia will pay 5.2 percent or $273 million. Loudoun County will pay 4.8 percent -- $252 million, and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority will be responsible for 4.1 percent or $215 million.

"The next meeting will be held Thursday, Sept. 3, from 5 to 8 p.m. at McLean High School, 1633 Davidson Road in McLean. The final meeting is set for Wednesday, Sept. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. at South Lakes High School, 11400 South Lakes Drive in Reston.

"Each session will include exhibits on the scope, cost and financing of the Dulles Rail extension; potential future Dulles Toll Road improvements; revenue anticipated to be raised from the toll increases and how it will be spent."