Pennsylvania Turnpike tolls have been steadily increasing every year for nearly 20 years.
And this year is no exception.
On January 7, rates will increase by 5% for all E-ZPass and Toll By Plate customers on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission approved the move in July.
“As in previous years, the PTC will support legislation to provide additional funding to PennDOT for transportation systems in the state, as outlined in Act 44 of 2007,” said Commission Chairman Mark Compton. As part of this obligation, we are required to increase fees annually.” statement.
The most common passenger vehicle fares will increase next year from $1.80 to $1.90 for E-ZPass customers and from $4.40 to $4.70 for Toll-by-Plate customers, officials said. It is said that
The most common fees for Class 5 tractor trailers will increase from $14.40 to $15.20 for E-ZPass and from $29.40 to $30.90 for toll-by plates, officials said.
Additionally, E-ZPass and Toll By Plate fees for passenger cars and commercial vehicles will be rounded up to the nearest 10 cents after the price increases are applied.
Turnpike Commission officials said: Act 44 Under the funding plan, PTC is obligated to increase fees annually until at least 2053.
“We recognize that our customers are paying a premium when they choose to travel on the Pennsylvania Turnpike,” Compton said in a statement. “In return, we strive to provide a reliable, premium experience that gets our customers to their destination in a timely and safe manner.”
In a statement regarding the toll increases, Compton said that despite continued toll increases, the Pennsylvania Turnpike’s passenger-per-mile rate remains below the national average when compared to other toll collection agencies in the United States. He claimed that
Of the 47 U.S. toll road, bridge and tunnel operators, the PA Turnpike’s E-ZPass ridership rate is 15 cents per mile, nearly 20 percent lower than the national average of 18 cents, turnpike officials claim. did.
Officials also claim that the Pennsylvania Turnpike’s E-ZPass commercial rate of 55 cents per mile is 12 percent lower than the national average of 62 cents per mile.
“Despite having to increase tolls every year for the past 15 years, the PA Turnpike remains cheaper than the national average,” Compton said in a statement.