Bay Bridge Sees Traffic Increase Despite Toll Hike
OCEAN CITY, Md. (AP) -- Higher tolls on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge haven't led to fewer cars and trucks crossing the busy span to the Eastern Shore.
The Daily Times reports there has actually been a slight increase in traffic of 3 percent since the cash toll increased. On Nov. 1, tolls went up from $2.50 per car to $4.
Statistics from the Maryland Transportation Authority show an increase from 2011 when traffic was down for nine of the 12 months.
The $2.50 toll to cross the bridge hadn't been changed since the 1970s, and the increase drew protests. Transportation officials said the increase was necessary to pay for bridge upkeep amid shortfalls in the state budget.
Some Eastern Shore lawmakers say the toll hike is harmful because it raises the cost of business.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
