Committee thinks they’ve found SR 99 tunnel tolling ‘sweet spot’
Jul 25, 2013, 6:15 AM | Updated: 10:20 am
The boring machine, "Bertha" is lowered into position so it can begin creating the SR 99 tunnel in Seattle. Before it even gets started, a committee is trying to set a toll for the new transportation option. (WSDOT Photo)
(WSDOT Photo)
Ground hasn’t even been broken on the new tunnel that will replace the crumbling Alaskan Way, but officials are already working to convince you to actually use it.
The Viaduct Replacement Advisory Committee thinks it’s getting closer to finding the right tolling option.
“We’ve been running scenarios, trying to get closer and closer to that sweet spot of increasing our revenue to the point to cover all of the costs of operating, maintaining, and paying for the capital cost of the tunnel while not causing gridlock on our city streets,” says Maud Daudon with the Viaduct Replacement Advisory Committee.
Under the latest scenario, the toll would be $1.25 during peak times and a $1 on weekdays and weekends.
Now Daudon says they need to convince people to not avoid the tunnel.
The Washington State Transportation Commission will determine what the final toll will be.
