Tolls
HB 3202 enables the HRTA to collect tolls. According to a HRPDC/VDOT/FHWA toll feasibility study in 2005, tolls are a necessary funding source to supplement tax and fee revenue to build the six HRTA projects. The toll feasibility study indicated that tolls alone cannot fund this package of projects.
Electronic Tolling
Long-time residents of Hampton Roads may remember tolls on the Norfolk-Virginia Beach Expressway (now I-264 in Virginia Beach), the Downtown and Midtown Tunnels, and even the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel. However, those old tolling methods will not be employed by the HRTA. HB 3202 requires HRTA toll facilities to be “capable of fully automated electronic operation” in order not to impede traffic flow.
For more information on automated electronic tolling operation, including an animation demonstrating how an electronic tolling facility works, click here.
According to HB 3202, the HRTA can toll only those projects which it builds or improves, i.e. the six HRTA projects. Therefore, according to HB 3202, the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel (HRBT) cannot be tolled. Because the Downtown Tunnel and the Midtown Tunnel are considered by HB 3202 to be a single transportation facility, the Downtown Tunnel may also be tolled for improvements made to the Midtown Tunnel.
The HRTA will conduct a traffic and revenue (T&R) study which will include expected toll rates for these projects. Once those toll rates are determined, they will be posted here.
Projected Revenue Growth, click here.
HRPDC/VDOT/FHWA toll feasibility study, click here.
