The Illinois State Toll Highway Authority recently proposed higher tolls - including a doubling of truck tolls - to pay for a comprehensive $5.5 billion system-wide reconstruction and widening program.

The proposed increase, the authority emphasizes, is the first in almost 20 years and only the third toll increase in the Illinois Tollway's 44-year history.
Illinois Tollway Chairman Arthur Philip said the 15-year capital construction program is the only realistic and fiscally responsible solution that rebuilds and widens worn-out roadways as well as improves travel and relieves congestion.
"Continuing a program of Band-Aid maintenance will only lead to more frequent construction, increased congestion and ultimately, a waste of toll-payers' money," Philip said.
The Board of Directors proposed to increase the base 40-cent toll rate in 2002 by 35-cents, with a 10 percent discount for I-PASS electronic toll collection users. According to published reports, truck tolls would soar from $1.25 to $2.50.
The Board also recommended a second increase would be necessary in 2010 to complete this plan.
Originally set at 30 cents in 1958, tolls were last increased in 1983 to the current 40-cent rate. Passage of a new toll rate increase will require public hearings in 12 counties in northeastern Illinois, before the Board of Directors can vote on the proposal.