4/24/07-Gov. Tim Kaine has signed a bill into law that could help pay for improvements along U.S. Route 17 in the city of Chesapeake with tolls.
The governor's signature is no guarantee tolls will be collected along the route. The Federal Highway Administration and Hampton Roads Transportation Authority still would need to grant permission to follow through with the plan.
The new law, previously HB2951, allows the Commonwealth Transportation Board to seek tolls for the new $42 million U.S. 17 that stretches along Dominion Boulevard to the North Carolina-Chesapeake line. The route was widened in late 2005.
Toll rates for large trucks with three or more axles would start at $3 per trip. Rates for other vehicles would be determined after a study by the city of Chesapeake and the Virginia Department of Transportation.

2/27/07-The Senate unanimously approved a bill that could help pay for improvements along U.S. Route 17 in the city of Chesapeake with tolls.
Sponsored by Delegate John Cosgrove, HB2951 would allow the Commonwealth Transportation Board to seek tolls for the new $42 million U.S. 17 that stretches along Dominion Boulevard to the North Carolina-Chesapeake line. The route was widened in late 2005.
Toll revenue also would help pay for replacing the two-lane Steel Bridge on U.S. 17.
Toll rates for large trucks with three or more axles would start at $3 per trip. Rates for other vehicles would be determined after a study by the city of Chesapeake and the Virginia Department of Transportation.
The Senate vote cleared the way for the bill to head to Gov. Tim Kaine's desk. The House unanimously approved it early this month.
The governor's signature is no guarantee tolls will be collected along the route. The Federal Highway Administration still would need to grant the state permission to follow through with the plan.
For bill status, call (804) 698-1500. In Virginia, call 1-877-391-3228.