Mackinac Bridge tolls take big hike

For the first time in 40 years, they're increasing the tolls for passenger vehicles crossing the Mackinac Bridge.

At a meeting today, the Mackinac Bridge Authority decided to raise the passenger vehicle toll from the present $1.50 to $2.50 ($1.25 an axle).

Trucks and buses will pay $3.00 an axle.

The new rates take effect May 1, 2003.

The following is the full text of a news release issued today by the Michigan Department of Transportation:

*************************************************************** Passenger vehicle tolls on Mackinac Bridge increasing for first time in 40 years

At a special Dec. 19 meeting, the Mackinac Bridge Authority approved a plan that will simplify the toll classification system and adjust the toll rates.

"We'd like to thank everyone for sharing their thoughts with us," said MBA Board Chairman William Gnodtke.

"The board factored public input into a decision the best way possible. This was a very difficult but necessary decision."

Effective May 1, 2003, the new toll rates to cross the Mackinac Bridge will be:

- $1.25 per axle for passenger vehicles

- $1.50 per vehicle for commuters

- $2.00 per axle for motor homes

- $3.00 per axle for all other vehicles including trucks and buses

"This new plan will improve our financial forecast tremendously and simplify our classification system," said MBA administrator Bob Sweeney.

"We're a self-sufficient operation, and it is unfortunate when we have to raise tolls.

But, our rates for passenger vehicles have not increased in more than 40 years."

Projects scheduled over the next 10 years total approximately $100 million and include extensive paint removal and repainting, security system enhancements, truck holding area, concrete repair, structural steel replacement and technological improvements.