The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission yesterday announced that it submitted a revamped application to the Federal Highway Administration, seeking approval to implement tolls on Interstate 80.
"We're confident that we've made a compelling case for FHWA approval, and we expect to continue to work with agency staff as they review our application," PTC chief executive officer Joe Brimmeier said in a press release. "This revision contains much more in-depth information than our initial submittal, which necessitated a six-week review."
Information added to the proposal includes the PTC's proposed 10-year, $2.5 billion capital spending plan that officials say will update 83% of the interstate's roadway and replace 60 of its bridges. That proposal would increase infrastructure funding on I-80 by roughly $200 million annually.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation oversees I-80, currently investing $50 million to $60 million each year for infrastructure improvements. Conversely, the PTC announced that it would spend $250 million annually, on average, to revamp the roadway, update deficient bridges, and complete interchange projects, if the federal government approves the tolling plan.
Along with the capital spending plan, the authority included information on its open-road tolling plan, implementation schedule, revenue projections, lease payments, and issuance of bonds, according to the press release.
Officials anticipate the FHWA will release its decision on I-80 by early fall. The 311-mile interstate runs from New Jersey to Ohio through the center of the state.
