In a press release, the Kansas Turnpike Authority announced tolls will increase in February.
The Kansas Turnpike Authority has approved a toll increase effective February 1, 2013. Increases will be structured in the following ways:
• Cash rates for 2-4 axles (cars/light trucks), 10% on average; K-TAG rates for 2-4 axles (cars/light trucks), 5% on average
• Cash and K-TAG rates for 5-9 axles (large commercial vehicles, 5% on average
The last toll hike was in 2009. “The Turnpike’s financial plan is based on modest, somewhat frequent increases — approximately every three years — rather than deferring until larger increases are necessary. This toll increase remains consistent with the KTA’s mission of providing high-quality, highway transportation services for the lowest reasonable cost,” the press release stated.
“Like any business we adjust our prices from time to time,” said KTA president Michael Johnston.
The extra funds will go to help repair some of KTA’s roads and 348 bridges.
“As time goes by year after year, things wear out. We go back and make those repairs. It’s part of an ongoing part of our business and our costs don’t decline and don’t go away just because the original in debtITness of the turnpike has retired,” said Johnston.
The Kansas Turnpike Authority urges those who travel the turnpike to get a K-TAG. Motorists can save up to 30% on tolls, depending on the payment method they choose.
You can purchase K-TAGs at staffed exit lanes, AAA offices in Kansas, The Merc in Lawrence, Leavenworth County Annex in Tonganoxie, and online at www.myktag.com.