Pennsylvania Turnpike Tolls To Rise 6 Percent In 2016

Drivers on the Pennsylvania Turnpike will face a 6 percent toll hike come Jan. 3, according to a statement posted on the turnpike commission’s website.

The commission announced the decision on Tuesday, stating the increase is needed to repay “substantial borrowing” required to meet the its financial obligations under state laws signed in 2007 and 2013. According to the statement, the repayments are in connection to statewide roadway projects and mass-transit operations, including $4.75 billion for “off-Turnpike investment.”

The commission foresees annual toll increases of 3 to 6 percent until 2044.

“We are confident that we can continue to moderate future increases through improved efficiencies, however we have no choice but to increase tolls as we move forward,” said Turnpike Commission Chairman Sean Logan in the statement. “At the moment, traffic and revenue forecasts estimate annual increases of three to six percent will be required until 2044.”

The 6 percent increase means the minimum toll will rise from $1.09 to $1.16 for EZ Pass customers, and from $1.70 to $1.85 for drivers who pay cash.

(PHOTO: The Pennsylvania Turnpike. Courtesy of the turnpike commission)