1/21/10-A plan in the works by Gov. Joe Manchin would open up the possibility of more toll roads in an effort to complete new road projects.
The governor is readying a proposal that would give the West Virginia Parkways Authority the option to expand the state’s toll roads. Currently, the lone pay-as-you-go route is along the West Virginia Turnpike.
Changes are being sought to address the lack of funding available to the state to build and maintain key highways. The state’s dependence on fuel tax collections, which is the major component of the state’s road fund, has caused problems in recent years. Less fuel consumption, more fuel-efficient vehicles and changing driving habits have been cited for less revenue.
Manchin is hopeful of expanding the state’s options of getting new roads built by authorizing toll roads.
One project that could benefit includes a 14.6-mile stretch of U.S. Route 35 through Putnam and Mason counties. The parkways authority would be able to pursue selling bonds to pay for converting it into a four-lane highway.
Supporters acknowledge the concept won’t work everywhere in the state. There would need to be enough traffic to warrant charging tolls. Others say they support the idea of tolling highway users, but only if there are tax breaks tied in.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association doesn’t categorically oppose having new roads tolled, as long as certain conditions are met. OOIDA does, however, stand against double taxation, diversion and other burdens that toll roads can put on highway users.
The governor’s proposal is still in the works. Once it is submitted, the legislation will need to gain approval in the Legislature before becoming law.