PennDOT expects 9 bridges to be tolled in August – CBS Pittsburgh

By: Shelley Bortz / KDKA-TV

BRIDGEVILLE, Pa. (KDKA) – It looks like PennDOT’s plan to toll several bridges in Pennsylvania, including one along I-79 near Bridgeville, will come to fruition despite efforts by lawmakers to block it.

READ MORE: City Council votes to create task force to prioritize bridge repair

Drivers will have to pay more than $2 each time they cross the bridge. Lawmakers and motorists believe this will harm businesses in the area, increase traffic on local roads and drain the pockets of commuters commuting I-79 every day.

The I-79 bridge near Bridgeville is just one of nine bridges on the interstate highway across the commonwealth that PennDOT is considering charging additional repair and upgrade fees.

A lawsuit was filed back in November on behalf of South Fayette, Collier and Bridgeville to block the department’s plan, which, if approved, would remain in place for 30 years.

READ MORE: 2 dead after police shooting in Fayette County

Opponents argue that this will be a financial burden on local users and harm businesses in the area, while PennDOT says it is necessary as fewer people drive and pay. gasoline due to COVID.

Nearly 90,000 people travel I-79 daily.

Jane Birris from South Fayette said: “I would be very disappointed if every time I drove around the area, I had to pay a toll.

“It will be hugely damaging to businesses in the area as people will inevitably take alternative routes,” said Tina Wolford from Cecil Township.

MORE NEWS: Millions of Pennsylvania public school pension funds invested in Russia, no plans to divest yet

PennDOT expects all bridges to be approved for toll collection by August. However, the lawsuit is still pending.