In the first of four planned public hearings on toll rates in the state of Washington, officials from the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) recommended Tuesday a maximum toll fare of $12 for those travelers using I-405 without a Good to Go! Pass. The pass is the state’s electronic tolling system, which allows drivers to use express driving lanes without having to stop at a traditional toll plaza.
While this proposed figure seems excessive, WSDOT stipulated that it expects the average toll rate to range $0.75 to $4.00 for the average trip. The $12 maximum would simply be the ceiling for non-pas drivers, while drivers with the Good to Go! Pass would realize a maximum charge of $10. An additional $2 surchrage would be levied at those non-pass drivers who choose to pay their toll by mail. Exemptions from the toll would be limited to motorcycles, transit vehicles, vanpools and carpoolers, though it has been suggested that the criteria for carpooling be raised to three person per vehicle during peak driving hours, consisting of the standard commuting blocks before 9 am and after 3 pm.
"This is a really big step," said Project Director Kim Henry. "This has taken us almost a dozen years to get to this point where we are today. This is really important because we need to provide congestion relief. I think people would like to see a reliable trip and this is a system that is going to help them get a reliable trip."
Between Bellevue and Bothell along I-405, two high-occupancy toll lanes, or HOT lanes, are being installed, while a single HOT lane will open between Bothell and Lynnwood; both new lane additions are expected to significantly ease congestion along the interstate, which is at present considered Washington’s most congested highway.
At the hearing, among the several dozen attendees, concern was expressed regarding the proposed rates and WSDOT’s plans to increase HOV requirements during peak hours. Many citizens were reportedly adamant that they already pay enough to use the toll road.
The state’s Transportation Commission is considering all recommendations and is expected to make a final decision March 18, after subsequent meetings.
