West Virginia Turnpike toll fees on track to double

The West Virginia Parkways Authority unanimously voted to move forward with a proposal that will double the current WV Turnpike fees.

The vote was taken during a board meeting on April 5, 2018.

If the proposal passes, a single-fee discount E-ZPass will be available exclusively to Class 1 passenger vehicles for a $24 fee. The pass is good for three years and allows unlimited access. Starting January 1, 2019, the fee will rise to $25.

For motorists without an E-ZPass, the toll rate will double. Mainline toll plazas for passenger vehicles will increase their rates from $2 to $4. Class 8 commercial vehicle fees will climb from $6.75 to $13.50.

According to Metro News, the new fees will help raise over $300 million in bonds to pay for road construction projects in 10 southern West Virginia counties.

Although there is a large focus on sending funds to turnpike related projects, Parkways Authority General Manager Greg Barr wants to assure the public that the highway will be maintained.

“…we’re going to make darn sure that the Turnpike has the proper maintenance reserves and is well taken care of,” Barr said.

Four public meetings will be held in May before making a final decision on June 7, 2018.