Mo. senator files proposal to allow tolls on I-70
The measure would allow the state Department of Transportation to contract with a private company to fix I-70 in exchange for being allowed to charge tolls. Sponsoring Sen. Mike Kehoe, a Republican from Jefferson City, says that is the only way the state can afford the improvements the highway needs to accommodate increasing traffic.
The Associated Press
2/7/2012
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — A central Missouri lawmaker has filed legislation that would allow Interstate 70 to be turned into a toll road.
The measure would allow the state Department of Transportation to contract with a private company to fix I-70 in exchange for being allowed to charge tolls. Sponsoring Sen. Mike Kehoe, a Republican from Jefferson City, says that is the only way the state can afford the improvements the highway needs to accommodate increasing traffic.
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Transportation Department Director Kevin Keith has said that traffic could grind I-70 into a "graveled parking lot" within 15 years without additional funding to make repairs.
Several lawmakers have voiced opposition to putting tolls on I-70. They say tolls could harm Missouri's drivers and the trucking industry.
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