Tacoma Narrows Bridge Tolls Drop In October

PIERCE COUNTY, WA — Pierce County commuters who rely on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge will pay a little less for the trip come October after a final vote this week by the Washington State Transportation Commission.

Earlier this year, state lawmakers passed Senate Bill 5488, which provided funding to offset a reduction in the bridge's toll rates. According to The Seattle Times, the bill allots $130 million over a decade to help pay off the remaining bridge debt and mandates cheaper tolls. The commission sought public input on three options in June and met again in July before holding a final vote on reductions Tuesday morning.

Under the plan, drivers of standard two-axle vehicles will pay 75 cents less per eastbound trip starting Oct. 1. Most drivers with a "Good to Go!" pass will pay $4.50, down from $5.25. Toll reductions are higher for larger vehicles, like semi-trucks.

Here is a breakdown of the new toll rates, beginning in October:

According to KING 5, the incoming reduced tolls are believed to be the first in Washington state history.