Be heard on proposed toll hikes

The Illinois State Toll Highway Authority is holding public hearings this July on the proposed toll hikes. If approved, these increases would take effect Jan. 1, 2027. These proposed rate increases could be adjusted every other year to take into account inflation beginning in 2029.

The plan for these increases would fund sections of the Veterans Memorial Tollway to be widened to ease congestion. Although the Veterans Memorial Tollway would benefit from these increases, this will not be cheap for everyday users. According to Notice of Public Hearings published by the Illinois Tollway, drivers currently paying $1.90 per toll would be paying $3.05 by Jan. 1, 2027. That is a huge increase for everyday drivers going back and forth to work.

Commercial toll rates for large vehicles currently paying $20.10 would increase to $28.15. This increase could be passed on to consumers utilizing the products transported in these vehicles.

If you are not in agreement with these proposed increases, it is imperative that you attend a public hearing in your area to make an oral statement. In accordance with the law, the meeting times and places have been published. If you are unable to attend, a written statement postmarked no later than Monday, Aug. 3 can be sent to the Illinois Tollway’s website at www.illinoistollway.com/drivingconnections

Voters must express their opinions on these proposed increases in this coming month so as not to be shocked when the increases suddenly are reported in the news. Everyday tollway drivers would benefit from tollway improvements. Your pocketbook will not be one of them. The Illinois government continues to come to the taxpayers for additional funds for every project it undertakes. Years of fiscal mismanagement should be stopped.

Linda McDaniel-Hale

Sleepy Hollow