Mixed reactions to gov.'s idea of resurrecting toll road authority

Mixed reactions to gov.'s idea of resurrecting toll road authority

March 29, 2007

NASHVILLE (WATE/AP) -- Gov. Bredesen says he supports a proposal to create a toll road authority in Tennessee but the idea is getting mixed reactions from motorists.

The proposal would consider charging for access to new roads and bridges built in the state.

"I don't like it because I don't want to pay it," said Leigh Boling, of Maryville. "We pay for tax for our car. We pay taxes. I just think it should be taken out of that. The money is going somewhere."

Another driver, Jessica Inman, objects because "...it's going to cause traffic jams, too. It's going to cause buildup because everyone is going to have to stop and go."

Truckers could be affected the most by tolls. Michigan trucker Albert Halsey told 6 News, "It would help the state of Tennessee out, but it's going to cost truck drivers more money."

But another trucker doesn't see it as a bad idea. Chicago trucker Doris Sajer says, "The toll roads would probably be a good way to revenue money to fix the roads so it would be safer."

Bredesen said charging tolls could deflect the need to raise the gasoline tax to pay for new road projects. A previous version of a state toll road authority was disbanded after years of inaction.

On Thursday, Bredesen said this is just a "possible tool in the tool box."

The governor had previously said he was not opposed to charging for access, but that he was not certain where toll roads and bridges would be located.

A toll road authority could also explore contracting the private construction and operation of new roads.

Under pending legislation, no tolls could be added to existing roads.

6 News Reporter Erica Estep contributed to this report. Some portions of this report copyright 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.