Truckers hail decision against Pennsylvania tolls

The Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association said the Federal Highway Administration has rejected an application to erect tolls on Interstate 80 that was submitted by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission because it "doesn't meet statutory and technical requirements.

Jim Runk, president the group, said it opposed the tolling of I-80 because of the burden it would place on our residents, businesses and commuters.

With this development, Gov. Rendell will once again pitch privatization of the Pennsylvania Turnpike as the only available option to generate revenues to repair our infrastructure. While the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association remains committed to viable, long-term solutions that best serve the interests of Pennsylvania's citizens and business community, we are adamant that forfeiting control of the turnpike to a for-profit motivated entity is definitely not the answer.

Instead, he said, Pennsylvania's leaders should consider all options, including traditional, equitable and efficient funding mechanisms such as fuel taxes, to address the Commonwealth's infrastructure needs. Privatizing the turnpike for 75 years is not in the public's best interest. Such an arrangement is nothing more than a loan obligation that must be paid back by future generations.  

Source: American Shipper