Pennsylvania Turnpike Tolls To Rise Sunday

On Sunday, January 6, 2013, the Pennsylvania Turnpike toll rates will increase by 10% for cash customers and 2% for E-ZPass customers.  The tolls will go into effect at 12:01 a.m., the Turnpike Authority said in a new release.

According to the news release, tolls for the Southern Beltway (Pa. Turnpike 576) haven’t increased since 2006.  “Cash customers on this section of road near the Pittsburgh International Airport will see a 50 percent increase on Jan. 6. E-ZPass customers using the Southern Beltway will see no toll rate increase,” the release states.

The Turnpike Authority says they must raise tolls in order to uphold their commitment with the Commonwealth to help address the transportation shortfall.

“As of Sunday, drivers operating Class 7 trucks — tractor-trailers between 62,001 and 80,000 pounds — will pay nearly $145 to go between the Warrendale toll plaza in Allegheny County and the Delaware River Bridge in Bucks County, compared with $107 in 2008. Those paying cash will cough up almost $184,” TribLiveNews reported.