Public meetings are being held across New Hampshire to gather public input for the state's Ten-Year Plan that includes raising tolls to help fund highway projects.
CONCORD, NH (WBZ NewsRadio) — New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte is saying 'no' to a proposal that would raise highway tolls in the state.
The state's Department of Transportation has a 'Ten Year Plan' (2027 to 2036) to fund highway projects, but it says there's a $400 million shortfall preventing some of the projects in the plan from moving forward.
The department's proposal calls for raising tolls $1 at "all major plazas" which are in Hampton, Hooksett, and Bedford.
According to the proposal, the state's shortfall is from revenue that is flat and lower than previous projections, while project and operating costs are rising.
To make up for the shortfall, the Hampton tolls would go up from $2 to $3, while the Hooksett and Bedford tolls would rise from $1 to $2.
Currently in its 'public input phase,' the proposal is generating a mixed response.
One resident said he's all for the plan if the money is used to repair roads. "Highways, back roads, every road, nothing's good," he said. "Potholes everywhere."
Jerry though from Salem, said he supports the governor and doesn't agree with raising tolls. "What do you call it? Highway robbery," Jerry said.
There hasn't been a statewide toll increase since 2007.
WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas (@JamesRojasbsky.social) reports.