The Connecticut Department of Transportation released a new tolling study by engineering consultants CDM Smith which outlined a proposal to install 82 electronic tolling gantries on all Connecticut’s major interstates and routes 15, 8, 9, and 2.
“The report we are releasing today is designed to inform a dialogue among our elected leaders and the citizens of Connecticut about the potential for instituting tolls in the state,” said CTDOT Commissioner James P. Redeker in a press release. “Governor Malloy’s Transportation Finance Panel concluded that current revenues are insufficient to maintain our roads and bridges or to remove traffic bottlenecks and reduce congestion and recommended tolls as one way of generating new revenue.”
CDM Smith estimates the tolls would generate $1.086 billion per year and cost approximately $100 million per year in operating costs after the initial installation costs of $372 million.
According to the report, Connecticut drivers with an E-Z Pass would receive a 20 – 30 percent discount, while out of state drivers and trucks would pay more.
Peak rates for drivers were estimated to be 7.9 cents per mile, with a discount down to 5.5 cents per mile for Connecticut commuters, although the rates change depending on time of day and the type of E-Z Pass.
A single, one-way trip on I-95 from New York to New Haven during peak hours would cost $2.11 or $4.22 for a round trip. That could equal $21.10 per week for a regular commuter with an CT E-Z Pass commuter discount.
Heavy trucks could pay as much as 47.3 cents per mile, under the plan.
The CTDOT estimates the average Connecticut driver travels 12 miles on “limited access highways” like Routes 8, 15, and 9.
Including the discounts for Connecticut drivers with an E-Z Pass, CDM Smith estimates that 40 percent of toll revenue would be generated by out of state drivers.
The electronic tolls – known as “congestion tolls” – would also serve to divert traffic off the highways during peak hours, according to the report.
The study was previously kept under wraps by DOT Commissioner James Redeker and was the subject a complaint to the Freedom of Information Commission by Sen. Len Suzio, R-Meriden. In July, Redeker cited the results of the study in testimony before the state Bond Commission but refused to release the study until today.
Gov. Dannel Malloy and a number of other state legislators say tolling Connecticut’s highways are necessary to support the state’s Special Transportation Fund.
Several tolling bills were proposed during the 2018 legislative session, but none were brought to a vote.
The study released by CTDOT is different from the $10 million tolling study authorized by the state Bond Commission in July, which would conduct the environmental studies necessary for the federal government to approve tolling on the interstate highways.
Malloy issued an executive order to conduct the environmental studies after the legislature was unable to pass a bill to authorize the study.
Governor-elect Ned Lamont said he would try to limit tolling to out of state trucks only, but a similar plan by Rhode Island has resulted in a lawsuit against the state.
The number and locations of the tolling gantries are subject to change, according to the study, and will likely depend on how lawmakers choose to implement the tolls.
Previous tolling bills called for the establishment of a Transportation Authority – a quasi-public agency which would oversee the implementation and collection of toll revenue.
Kym Higgins
November 15, 2018 @ 6:40 pm
So My husband who is a firefighter will have to pay ten tolls to get to work…I can’t wait to leave this state
Janet Lynn
November 15, 2018 @ 6:43 pm
Guess what will happen with the outrageous truck tolls. UP goes EVERYTHING coming into the state. We will be getting screwed from both ends. Democrats will be successful in the final destruction of CT
Chip
November 15, 2018 @ 7:52 pm
I guess the backroads will be more congested because I plan on avoiding these tolls
Dan
November 15, 2018 @ 8:08 pm
Weicker said no tolls if we let him implement a income tax. Get rid of income tax and have your tolls. Would only cost me 1500.00 a year
Shawn
November 15, 2018 @ 8:23 pm
Kim Higgins – given that the firefighters (state) pension is at risk of going under – wouldn’t you want to collect tolls from out of staters to pay the bills?
Maria
November 15, 2018 @ 8:28 pm
I hope that the people of CT fight this. As a former resident, I can’t believe the punitive and regressive nature of these 82 tolls – even on the Berlin Turnpike in Wethersfield and Rocky Hill! So low income folks who shop at Aldi’s (to save money) on the Berlin Turnpike, will pay tolls to get there. I remember clearly when the income tax was passed. All the severe budget cuts my family made went to the state coffers. I may miss friends and family in Ct but not much else.
Daniel Luisi
November 15, 2018 @ 8:38 pm
what I don’t get is the democrats will be paying the same tolls and will be paying the same higher prices on goods? How stupid are they? the sad thing is they cheat and steal and republicans let them get away with it because republicans can’t be bothered well It is time they start being bothered
Frustrated
November 15, 2018 @ 9:00 pm
Dems doing it again. They won’t be happy until everyone is on welfare,then they’re guaranteed to own ct for life. Ct used to be a beautiful state. We all need to fight this. Maybe our high taxes should be spent on infrastructure not fraudulent welfare and illegals
Wayne D Boothroyd
November 15, 2018 @ 9:03 pm
registered ct license plate holders should not pay any tolls in the state. Tolls should not be a different price at different times of the day.If tolls are installed only out of state plates should be charged.also where do you get a ct ez pass?
Rich Sampietro jr
November 15, 2018 @ 9:36 pm
My God when will this taxation ever stop well you wanted to vote Democrat you get what you pay for
Rich Sampietro Jr
November 15, 2018 @ 9:38 pm
Sorry vote for
robert takacs
November 15, 2018 @ 9:46 pm
good !!you vote them in you pay !!lmfao DUMB voters ha a chance to change this tax spend state
Rocco Jones
November 15, 2018 @ 9:57 pm
A little bit of over kill, I’m retired I hate to move away over something so stupid. If the money went to fixing the roads it would be one thing. Usually it goes to the cities because they got the votes for Lamont. I’m old and retired I don’t need this state, I think many of my fellow retirees feel the same way. When we leave who will pay the taxes the inner city….right next joke.
Loretta Budny
November 15, 2018 @ 10:11 pm
You young people would be wise to leave this state while you can. This state will not get better for a very long time with more Democrates running things. They just don’t know how!
Barbara voiges
November 15, 2018 @ 10:15 pm
You stupid voters who voted for the democrats this is what you get! But unfortunately you take the rest of us down with you. I will be taking backroads to,work. I refuse to pay for the tolls excuse me I mean the new tax! Aren’t you people sick of paying more taxes??? I am and can’t wait to leave this state. The more people that are drive out of this state the only people that will be left will be the folks in fairfield county who obviously can afford a new tax! I’m done with this shit!!! Sick of it and all of you people who voted in that weasel and the rest of the dumbocrats legislature!, this state SUCKS!!!
Kate
November 15, 2018 @ 10:18 pm
I believe registered CT vehicles should not be subject to any tolls; we pay too many taxes. Make out-of-staters pay!!
Frank
March 17, 2019 @ 11:48 am
Many of those “Out-Of-Staters”, aka “Tourists” will simply vacation elsewhere. There goes your hotel/restaurant/entertainment revenue…
Pamela Meholik
November 15, 2018 @ 10:34 pm
Guess my husband is above average then, as it says the average CT driver only drives 12 miles on limited access highways like RT. 8, 15 and 9. We live in Winsted and my husband works in Bridgeport off of 95 which is 64 miles ONE WAY! 128 miles per day times 5 is 540 miles per week. That’s $18.90 per week or $982.80 per year!!! Our families live in Naugatuck and Seymour. To visit my family is 41 miles away, my in-laws are 45 away. Those who take buses and don’t work won’t be hit by the tolls, but I’m sure somehow they will benefit, as the middle class carries this state on their backs. What will happen when we all move out?
Daniel heary
November 15, 2018 @ 10:34 pm
The statement in running for election was: “this will generate one billion in $$ for Connecticut”…..the generated $$ is coming from us…I look at this as another form of taxation..drive more…pay more. ..HORRIBLE way to get out of debt…WE ARE PAYING FOR THE DEBT…
Dwayne
November 15, 2018 @ 10:50 pm
Good job Dummycrats…you officially screwed the rest of the state. Sickening that Hartford, bridgeport and New Haven hold our election in their hands…need the electoral college at local level not just presidency….f all you dummyrats
Disturbed
November 15, 2018 @ 11:55 pm
Here’s the thing. They put tolls on our fucking roads, and people will flee the state in droves. THE PEOPLE DO NOT WANT TOLLS & tolling out-of-state drivers is NOT going to bring people back to this state. Just stop fucking spending money on your fucking pensions & do your fuckjng job.
Holly Dozois
November 16, 2018 @ 12:19 am
Glad I left Connecticut in 2011. Retired and couldn’t afford to live in the state I was born in and grew up in. When I come back to visit people, I sure will take all the back roads that I know of. I don’t want to pay the tolls either. Do your research people on where a good state would be for you to make your move to – and as soon as you can, leave!! I miss my friends but I don’t miss the taxes and crazy politics!
Bob
November 16, 2018 @ 2:20 am
I live in Manchester and commute to Bristol and Naugatuck for my two jobs. Yes…two jobs to make ends meet in CT.
Cannot wait to move out. Thank you to greater Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, and the northwest corner. 47 of 169 municipalities in CT voted for Mr. Lamont. The other 122 are paying for their votes.
John Williams
November 16, 2018 @ 2:58 am
The hated comment “I told you so” applies here. The dust from the election has not settled yet and this proposed form of more taxation rears it’s ugly head. I expect the Governor Elect, Ned Lamont, to issue a proclamation saying that tolls will not happen! He ran his election on a platform of no tolls for the residents of the State of Connecticut. Was that the truth or just another political lie?
Patricia Paul
November 16, 2018 @ 5:19 am
For the people that say that’s what you get for voting democrat! BS, I did NOT vote Democrat, and still got Effed! Too young to retire, and couldn’t bare to leave my Grand kids, back roads will surely be a mess! I was hoping they’d charge only out of state license drivers and give some form of pass for registered CT drivers
Pamela Klimas
November 16, 2018 @ 6:04 am
More people will leave ‼️CT…….thanks for nothing ?
Alan
November 16, 2018 @ 6:43 am
I moved out of this Democrat high tax you to death State in 2004 because the taxes were high then and getting higher all the time.
For me that amounts to almost 15 years of not paying higher taxes in the State of Connecticut.
I think of all the money I’ve saved during this time in my pocket and been able to enjoy my retirement with the tax money that I have not paid in Connecticut by living down here in the south, in the lower tax area of the country ,I smile alot.
I have family that are stuck in Connecticut and I feel so sorry for them because they’re struggling financially as it is.
As for the cost of trucks paying 47.9 cents a mile through Connecticut, you are going to see higher cost of goods like higher cost of fuel, higher UPS AND FEDEX AND US MAIL, higher cost of heating oil and propane, higher cost of services like hvac,lawn care, oil changes in your vehicals.
It’ll cost you more to buy a new vehicle because they have to get delivered to Connecticut dealers.
It may very well trickle down through the higher cost of health care, but if course if you are an illegal and on welfare you won’t have to pay anything.
It will cost more for (enviromental cost – fuel charges) ambulances to come and pick you up if you need medical care or fire department to come put out your fire or Police Department to come and protect you
It will cost more for doctors and nurses to get to and from their jobs, that will get passed down on to the Connecticut taxpayer as well.
Building a house in Connecticut are you? That will cost you considerably higher because of all the construction workers labor cost for traveling to and from their homes to their jobs as well as the materials cost to build your new home, then you’re going to be paying higher property taxes on the new homestead once it’s completed.
What about the cable cost for the repair person to come out and install or repair your cable,I see maybe more higher rates to cover their environmental (fuel) cost as well.
Also,it will cost you more to eat out at all the restaurants in Connecticut because they get food delivered by trucks. Remember folks, some of those truck drivers barely make $0.50 a mile and you want to charge them 47.9% some miles to go through the State of Connecticut ? Good luck with that.
All because the Democrats voted for your Democratic daddy Governor Lamont to be in charge.
You are definitely going to get what you voted for SCREWED.
It’s time for a mass Exodus out of THE State Connecticut for all you Connecticut residents.
I live in a 3 bedroom brick ranch home in the country down south now, when I lived in Connecticut I lived in a ranch that was smaller than this house yet I paid almost $5,000 in property taxes back in 2004 now, Now I’m paying under $1,000.00.
I have a 2017 suv, where I pay under $400 a year taxes, in Connecticut you would be well over a $1200.00 in property taxes for the same vehicle that I drive, you go figure huh?
If you Folks continue to stay in Connecticut, voting Democratic leaders in office, you will be paying higher taxes the rest of your life, Good luck Connecticut you’ll need it in the coming years.
Ron Page
November 16, 2018 @ 6:59 am
It’s really simple: city-dwellers won’t be impacted. They voted for more benefits. Lamont knows out-of-state-only, truck-only, and significant discounts are not allowed under the rules. He knows congestion-tolling places the burden on Connecticut commuters. He knew this when he was campaigning.
So did the unions when they supported him. He stood with them and promised he would take care of them. He will: on our backs. That new “toll authority”? Be assured they will be new union positions lead by a 6-figure commissioner with a couple 6-figure deputies. Plus benefits.
You all should hear the numbers the Northwest Chamber released; there’s no fixing this under this administration.
Giovanni
November 16, 2018 @ 7:27 am
No no and no
At most have out of staters pay and that too is a at most .
You cannot tax your way out , and I am as democrat as you can dream of.
You are fleecing people that work and are middle class . This is horrible: tolls have to be conceived only gor very limited spots and for a specific purpose: reached the goal you remove them. Tax corporations reduce too generous entitlements, reduce maintenance of thousands of little roads you built everywhere for two three homes : that was a huge mistake – but having tolls on highways like these proposed is not possible. By the way to declare bankruptcy is better than to
Have an empty state, a collapsed real estate and companies leaving because of these ridiculous actions.
Pat
November 16, 2018 @ 7:35 am
Who’s thinking about moving out of over taxed Connecticut ???
Karl
November 16, 2018 @ 7:47 am
I live in Torrington CT, I go to the VA in West Haven a lot for treatment. Thats 64 Mi I have to drive to and from so I can get better. Yes the DAV does Travel Pay and has to reimburse me from my gas and Tolls, problem is DAV takes up to 2-3 weeks to pay me my claim. I only get paid on the 1st of every month and its not that much so Im almost paycheck to pay check. My bank account will go red with this crap before I get reimbursed. Id be fine for out of state getting hit with a toll but not residents. These High Ways are the life line of our state and its not right to use it to kill our state even more. Unfortunately my Ancestors founded and created this State, and I have to stay and fight for what my Family actually wanted for this State. And these tolls are not. If I go to my Cousins Grave , Gov Oliver Wolcott Sr, I can prob hear thumping inside the Tumb.
Jim Anderson
November 16, 2018 @ 8:05 am
So glad we left for North Carolina. Anyone remaining there should really reflect on why they would stay. Think about the revenue from this: roughly $330 per year for every man woman and child in CT. Let’s say that only half of that comes from CT citizens. For every family of four, that’s $660 per year – right off the top. Naturally, most folks in the cities won’t be paying these tolls, so the average for most other CT families will most likely be closer to $1,000 per year. It’s like sending all your Christmas gifts to the State. I really feel sorry for anyone who actually must stay there. No sympathy for the rest, though. You brought this (and so much more) on yourselves.
Bob g.
November 16, 2018 @ 8:05 am
Good! It’s you rich Republicans that drive from the suburbs, us that live in the cities don’t give a crap, we aren’t the ones driving your luxury cars and oversized SUV all over.this will only affect YOU so suck it up and deal with it. It’s the price you pay for living in your pickett fenced Utopia. Don’t worry, keep moving out. There will be more to replace you.
Mb
November 16, 2018 @ 8:11 am
Tell you what… get rid of the state income tax, get rid of the tax on my cars and then I will pay tolls.. otherwise get the hell out of my pocket! This is literally the most taxed state in the nation and no one wants to live her anymore.
Steven Crusberg
November 16, 2018 @ 8:14 am
We all pay tolls when we go out of state. It’s only fair that out of staters using our highways pay their fair share. I am for tolls, but it will only work if our income tax is cut proportionately.
Dan
November 16, 2018 @ 8:15 am
Hahah for anyone to suggest that people are moving INTO CT is a joke!
Suzanne
November 16, 2018 @ 9:09 am
The next problem will be congestion on local roads, and the need to widen and repair them! The need for income at resident’s expense just keeps going.
David M.
November 16, 2018 @ 9:18 am
Back in 2015 there was a rumor being passed around that a toll would be instituted on major interstates in CT. Another rumor was that the gov’t. was going to introduce a tax on miles traveled. Even the suggestion of these rumors was the last straw for my wife and I. We placed our house on the market and decided to move on. It was becoming more and more difficult for a person who is retired to live in CT. In 2016 we sold the house and moved to Florida which we do not regret. Utilities and taxes were killing our modest way of life. We saved over $600 per month by moving to FL. No regrets.
Dan
November 16, 2018 @ 9:21 am
First, I am a democrat and I do believe that state employees and their pensions have to be reigned in if this state is to survive. Now, I don’t appreciate blanket blame statements. Maybe if we stop the democrat/republican blame game then we could find sensible solutions. I want to remind those who blast democrats as the root of all of the state’s/nation’s problems that we didnt get here alone and we are not alone and none of us are perfect. Let me remind those who believe in smaller government and that government should stay out of individuals’ lives are the same people who believe the government should restrict a woman’s right to choose. Seems hypocritical. So let’s stop chastising those we perceive as “the other”, “evil”, “enemy”etc and figure out what we have in common and how we can work together.
Drew
November 16, 2018 @ 9:26 am
I travel 58 miles a day. That’s about $50 a month for me. Meh, that’s like raising my income tax by half of one percent.
I’ll just ask for a higher raise next year. Better than whining about it or running away
Dan
November 16, 2018 @ 9:52 am
Good point
Stew Rivers
November 16, 2018 @ 10:02 am
So much misread information People really can’t stand the truth. The cost will be aprox 5 cents a mile get over it. Nothing is for nothing.
Debra Donovan
November 16, 2018 @ 10:21 am
So if the tolling is allegedly being instituted to collect revenue from out of state truckers, why are there tolls on Rt 15 when commercial vehicles are prohibited to travel that route?
Frank
November 16, 2018 @ 11:14 am
Bob g you dope – there are no “replacements.” Connecticut is LOSING population. Sooner or later there will be no more of us left to fund your welfare check.
Jim in Mfg
November 16, 2018 @ 11:22 am
What we the taxpayers want to know, is how much of the tolls bills actually go the state versus how much will be skimmed off by the company that provides the equipment and collection service?
Skidlee
November 16, 2018 @ 11:52 am
Welfare scum voted him in. They don’t pay taxes, tolls, food or rent. We work so they don’t have to. Pretty simple concept.
Steve
November 16, 2018 @ 12:04 pm
God I wish my mom would agree to leave this state.
I travel daily for work and average 600 miles a week just for work. So I’m going to have to pay $50 a week more to go to and from work. That’s an additional $2600 tax on top of the state gas tax that I’m paying at just about 44cents a gallon. Which equals about $800 a year for work and personal. On top of a car tax of $750 and good old Ned Lamont wanting to add another car tax. So at the end of the day I’m gonna be paying $4500-5000 in taxes on a vehicle to go to work. That means when it’s time for a raise next year I need to ask for a 10% raise just to break even. My employer is gonna love that.
Rich
November 16, 2018 @ 12:28 pm
Hey Stupid People, Weiker put in a temporary tax. Well it was supposed to be temp. Why didn’t Rowland get rid of it? Rell? Cuz they liked the revenue and didn’t have to find businesses to move here. Tolls are not a terrible thing if they will keep those of you who still want to live here, live here. 82 are not going to happen. But why not do the smart thing, get involved. Tolls at the borders only. Tolls for out of staters. CT gives everyone a free ride on their way to Boston or NY. And since you’re not gonna leave even though you say you will, why not come up with a better plan and go advocate instead of bitch online
Judith Silverstein
November 16, 2018 @ 12:52 pm
Lets just legalize tax and regulate recreational marijuana.. and dump the toll idea!
John
November 16, 2018 @ 12:54 pm
The wife has 3.5 years to go, then we take out pensions and SSI and head to South Carolina where we already bought property. Too many imbeciles like Dan (above) ruining it for working folks. My daughter already investigated a transfer south when we leave. I just hope the property values hold on a bit longer..
CAN NOT WAIT!!!
BTW, will the last one to leave please turn off the lights..
Dave
November 16, 2018 @ 1:17 pm
((poof))… the sound of housing prices falling even further. Who wants to move to this state when we are all taxed to death. In 2017 CT had the 3rd worst YoY real estate price movement IN THE COUNTRY – it was -4.6%. This place will look like Chernobyl by the time Lamont is done.
Bill
November 16, 2018 @ 1:32 pm
You idiots that re elected Malloy and now voted for Malloy 2.0 need a labotamy.
Jeff
November 16, 2018 @ 1:46 pm
Lived here all my life. Pissed that I’m being forced to leave a state I love. Of course, most people I deal with now are so miserable…that’ll make it easier. I turn 55 in 17 months. Then I’m out. And as I’m leaving I’ll make sure to stop by where Joe Aresimowicz is coaching his football team, so I can punch him in the head! (Allegedly 😉 )
Have we become this domesticated that we tolerate this???? Our ancestors would’ve handled this much differently….when people still had a pair.
Clem Beauchemin
November 16, 2018 @ 2:02 pm
Time for voters to wake up they freiged up an didn’t vote for Bob the re buildertime to move after here 76 years.. told my kids move to a friendly tax state.
Barbara Gilman
November 16, 2018 @ 2:07 pm
Name the HUGE, obvious warnings you are going to post on the highway to keep people from crashing into the toll booths? It takes only one spectacular crash to bring home the danger of toll booths. Fix the problem that will happen before it happens again.
David
November 16, 2018 @ 2:07 pm
This will be another nail in the coffin for small businesses and the middle class. This will increase food cost and building cost. Of course our elected officials don’t care about that when they can afford it.
Patrick Ptak
November 16, 2018 @ 2:43 pm
Every month when my bills arrive I need to pay them. How is that possible you ask? I live within my budget. Why do I live within my budget you ask? My boss does not allow me to charge him more because I can’t control my spending – Unlike our elected politicians ( well not ones I vote for anyway).
I have lived in Florida and moved back because I love the seasons, proximity to both Boston and New York and this is where my family is from. I love this state, but I too am starting to think about relocating to a more tax friendly state. Never thought it would come to that, but enough is enough!
John
November 16, 2018 @ 2:51 pm
Barbara, these are electronic tolls. Not the old school tolls. No cars stop, the cars are scanned as they pass the gantries.
Gary P
November 16, 2018 @ 4:14 pm
What would make more sense would be to establish toll collection as you enter the state at all major points. Take a look at Maryland and Delaware as examples. Charge an appropriate amount and that would allow the out of staters to pay for using our roads.
Deborah
November 16, 2018 @ 4:24 pm
And do you think are property taxes, income taxes, or gas taxes will go down when they put up the tolls? Doubtful, and if they do, likely to be minimal and short-lived. I’ll be taking all the backroads now all the time.
Roger Kochis
November 16, 2018 @ 4:40 pm
As I recall, after the terrible the tool booth accident when 2-3 people needlessly lost their lives. Gov. Wiecker removed the booths and raised the gas tax. Does this mean the State will reduce the gas tax ? I doubt it.
2. If they do proceed with this measure, the agency should be held to these estimates “Revenue $1.086 billion per year and cost approximately $100 million per year in operating costs after the initial installation costs of $372 million.” ESPECIALLY on the cost side of the equation! This is usually where ALL TOLL (TAX!!!) measure fail. The cost to run the darn thing exceeds their “initial estimates”.
3. Remember when the income tax was “temporary” ? These NEW TAXES!!!!, Oh, I mean “tolls” NEVER go down… especially in CT!
Jim
November 16, 2018 @ 4:51 pm
I left CT for Florida last year.
Let’s see, lower tax rates, better weather , no income tax, great parks and recreation, Less regulatory burdens.
I used to love living in CT. Now I can’t imagine moving back.
Ron Page
November 16, 2018 @ 5:14 pm
“Bob g. on November 16, 2018 at 8:05 AM
Good! It’s you rich Republicans that drive from the suburbs, us that live in the cities don’t give a crap, we aren’t the ones driving your luxury cars and oversized SUV all over.this will only affect YOU so suck it up and deal with it. It’s the price you pay for living in your pickett fenced Utopia. Don’t worry, keep moving out. There will be more to replace you.”
You ought to get out to the country some time and see what we drive, what we live in, what we do for work, Bob. It’s likely you’d discover there are many of us you could relate to. What you’ve described is a minority who are either lucky or on the other end of the pay-spectrum of the same benefactor caring for many in our urban areas.
As for our replacements, I wish you well extracting what you want from them. They won’t be evil Republicans and they either won’t have the means or won’t have the desire.
Tony P
November 16, 2018 @ 5:29 pm
We had Beavis as governor for the last eight years.
Now Democrats elected Butthead for the next 4
Brandon
November 16, 2018 @ 6:56 pm
It will affect recreational activities. I just started fishing saltwater and was happy just buying a few licenses but add tolls to that and mama wont be as happy with me fishing out of state as much.
Brandon
November 16, 2018 @ 6:58 pm
Governor Malloy you already prevented me from hunting in my state of birth because I can’t afford out of state tags,don’t price me out of fishing there too!
Fabian
November 16, 2018 @ 7:03 pm
Well there goes another money grab to fill the coffers of the upper echelon of the CT government. Tax revenue my ass
Sally
November 16, 2018 @ 7:53 pm
So they really expect people who commute to New York to get a CT tag to get the discount, pull over when they enter NY and switch out the tag every day to get the NY discounts?? Love the definition of commuter. 40 trips per month. If you take one sick day or vacation day, you miss the discount for the entire month. Do you people think at all about people who work out of state, which is most of us?
BethC
November 16, 2018 @ 8:24 pm
Many of us who can’t afford to pay the extra money that these tolls will cost us just to get to and from work every day will opt to take as many surface streets as possible. Has anyone in the capitol thought about what will happen as our towns will see a huge increase in travel on these surface streets? Increased town maintained roads aren’t fixed by the state DOT, which means it comes from the towns budget. If they can’t make ends meet what are they going to do? Raise the mil rate on property taxes. We used to get a break by being able to claim our property taxes paid on vehicles, but nope, those of us without dependents can’t do that anymore. And lets not forget about how much this increased traffic will affect local businesses… customers to businesses will not want to visit a location that is difficult to get in and/or out of. These proposed tolls are a HUGE mistake. My sister in law will have to travel though 7 of these tolls ONE WAY just to take her kids to see their dad. I would have to pass though 2 just for a 15 minute commute. We are hard working, under paid people who just can’t afford to pay any more than we are.
James McGrane
November 16, 2018 @ 9:35 pm
I left Connecticut 6 years ago for the Midwest and not a day goes by that I don’t miss my home state , I fear I may not be able to afford to come back .
Yours truly a
Connecticut Yankee stuck in
Samuel Clemmons home state.
henry Stowe
November 16, 2018 @ 9:42 pm
Just what are drivers going to get in return for paying an extra 5-10 cents a mile to drive on CT highways? If we were to get wider highways with an increase in operating level of service to A or B, it might be worth it, but I would never pay to sit in a 24 hour traffic jam like what is on I-95 and the Merritt. You have to be mental patient to give the CT DOT the authority to do this. FIGHT IT, for Pete’s sake
FormerResident
November 16, 2018 @ 10:14 pm
If your complaining and plan on moving out of CT… please DO NOT keep voting for idiots who want to raise taxes… do t bring.your problems to our states… moves years ago and never looked back… now everyone else is doi g it except they keep voting the same way hoping it will be different…SMH
Carol Hogg
November 16, 2018 @ 11:36 pm
What about those commuters who will take back roads through residential neighborhoods? Very scary when it comes to local neighborhood children riding their bikes, playing in streets that had been safe and, school children getting on and off school buses.
Jim Reed
November 16, 2018 @ 11:42 pm
I left Ct in 2016 and taxes were the paramount reason. I’m in Fl. now and I’m living at half the price with no heartburn.
Jane Adriano
November 16, 2018 @ 11:58 pm
I wrote Malloy two years ago and told him the answer to our problems is not tax increases or tolls it’s legalizing marijuana. We would have top schools to best road in the world and not have to pay anything more look at the states that are legalized. I refuse to pay a toll to the state of Connecticut I know Connecticut well enough to get off the highway where there’s not a toll and drives the back roads.
Stephen
November 17, 2018 @ 6:27 am
“The study was previously kept under wraps by DOT Commissioner James Redeker and was the subject a complaint to the Freedom of Information Commission by Sen. Len Suzio, R-Meriden. In July, Redeker cited the results of the study in testimony before the state Bond Commission but refused to release the study until today”
Are we to assume that there was no collusion…seriously!
Kris
November 17, 2018 @ 7:02 am
As a single mother of a child with special needs, I’ve been contemplating leaving this beautiful state that I grew up in. I just started a new job that I love and would hate to leave but honestly, I don’t know how I could afford yet another tax burden. Seems to me that the only ones able to afford living here are the people on welfare. Working hard in this state just costs me money and services that my son really needs! You cannot keep punishing the people who are trying to stick it out!
Paul Whitney
November 17, 2018 @ 8:03 am
What’s wrong with tolls just atthe borders.why should we pay to drive in our own state.
Steve
November 17, 2018 @ 8:37 am
Why not ask the Unions why State Employees can’t be in a 401K like everyone else?
Connecticut has $36 billion in unfunded OPEB liabilities. Connecticut’s retirement healthcare fund for state employees is short $36 billion, which amounts to more than $10,000 per person in the state, according to a new study by the American Legislative Exchange Council.
This is why we will have tolls.
Michael
November 17, 2018 @ 9:49 am
For a place that allegedly, has such a tremendous intellectual constituency, why haven’t they figured out what Texas, Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee have figured out? They attract WORKING people. They attract BUSINESSES, who hire working people. They charge property taxes on homes that sound like; $500 per year, not per month. And their citizens aren’t shooting up drugs on the sidewalk (think, California). So…..how do those uneducated hicks and rednecks accomplish all that, you ask?
Daz
May 20, 2019 @ 12:04 pm
I lived in Florida. I wish my property taxes had been “like” $500 per year. It was more like 10 times that.
As for drug users and homeless, you might want to look at the non upper middle class enclaves in Florida where drug use and homelessness are issues. Did you miss that Florida was the epi center of the pill mill problem until the government finally (after long term abuse) clamped down on it? And still has a very serious drug problem where more people OD from opiods than California. Do you know that Florida is in the bottom of the country for education? That it has lots of toll roads? That the legislature expands the highways and than charges to use the new lanes? That the bulk of the population and wealth are centered around democratic areas, whose property taxes carry the bulk of hte load for the rest of the state?
Have you perhaps missed that Tennessee is in the top 20 states for drug problems and #10 for worst poverty. Or that Alabama is #7 for poverty, bottom for education? That a UN investigator found conditions in parts of Alabama to be the worst in any industrialized country he has seen?
Ken
November 17, 2018 @ 9:54 am
I moved from CT to AZ in 2009 I got tired of high taxes and fees. Unfortunately, we are now electing Democrats in our state and I fear we will go down the same road as CT. Wake up people, Democrats tax and spend your money. I believe that the people moving here from the liberal democrat states are now voting the liberals in office to implement the same agenda that their state had, more regulations, higher taxes. So taxpayers in CT elect another Democrat.
Eileen
November 17, 2018 @ 12:18 pm
CT voters,
What are you trying to do to CT? Does no one remember the reason toll booths were removed? I bet the families of those that died do. Why would anyone think a Democratic Governor or toll booths are good for C? Wake up voters you are destroying CT!
Johnson
November 17, 2018 @ 1:38 pm
The problem isn’t Malloy or the Dems. Those who remember, CT was a state with NO income tax and many companies and people moved here. Then, Weicker became Gov. He said, “We need to institute a state tax for a year or two to clean up the books and then eliminate it.” Well, the state tax never went away and every year Hartford claims they need more money. Where is all the money going? Now we need extensive toll roads? There is something wrong with all of this!
Doug Mitchell
November 17, 2018 @ 4:07 pm
Guess what… trucking companies that get charged tolls, increase rates to those states. So you will all pay even more for the goods that you get.
Enjoy.
Ken almost retired state worker
November 17, 2018 @ 5:09 pm
Steve, the reason the state workers unfunded liabilities are so high is not bc of the employees or unions. The state legislators under Governor Roland told the unions that bc the state was in a surplus 20+ years ago that they were not going to pay into the fund what they were supposed to BY CONTRACT! It would be paid back 20 years later. Well, its now 20 yrs later and the state can’t afford to pay us back. That’s what happens when Democrats control the state spending for close to 30 years. And idiots keep electing them. Lamont said he was going to give us tolls and they still voted him in.
Steve
November 17, 2018 @ 5:50 pm
They also divert tragic off highway when busy….hiw do you think the townsfolk like that, especially ruining their roads etc?
Jschmidt
November 17, 2018 @ 11:10 pm
Ken, state worker. Are you staying here when you retire? And next up is the state car tax. Then marijuana tax.
Paul Tocco
November 18, 2018 @ 7:32 am
Roger, Weicker didn’t remove the tolls O’Neil did. Weicker just dipped his hand into your pockets and began the income tax. Also, these are not “toll booths” these are electronic scanners–no stopping, therefore they do not represent the high likelihood of crashes as the ones in the 80’s.
Question: What other New England States have no tolls?
Answer: None, only CT
I’m not advocating for tolls, I’m just saying all you ranters need a reality check of the history of the CT roadway system. The i95 corridor, for instance, has been obsolete since the late 50’s. Also, remember the Mianus bridge collapse? Too many vehicles, not enough room!
Taxedout
November 18, 2018 @ 12:23 pm
Wonder where this money will really go to, since the gas tax money was supposed to go to the same fund but never did.
jneitlich
November 18, 2018 @ 5:59 pm
Sadly, i would bet most of these posters did not remember we had tolls until about 1986. There was a horrific accident at the Westport tolls so a push was made to eliminate the tolls that were initially created to pay off the 30 year bonds to pay for building I-95 and maintaining our roads. A few years later CT got an income tax to replace the lost revenues. Live in SoCal now. so don’t talk to us about taxes. LOL! Oh, and they are adding more toll roads as well. #FactOfLife
Mark Kalinowski
November 18, 2018 @ 6:56 pm
This will cost me between $500 and $800 additionally, on top of the high taxes I already pay just to move about the state even with the “discount” for being a Connecticut subject….I mean resident. 30K people/yr leave CT now leaving fewer to pay for rising taxes. As more and more people flip off Connecticut government in their rear view mirror, I can’t wait to read about what will happen to those that stay while I read my South Carolina newspaper.
BruceW
November 18, 2018 @ 8:29 pm
This was an easy problem to solve prior to the election. Two politicians informed the voters of there intent to add tolls to CT limited access highways. One politician said No Tolls.
End of story………….. This issue alone should have been enough to vote for Bob S. Pull harder people!!!!!
RPK
November 19, 2018 @ 1:38 pm
Seriously? 82 tolls in a small state like this? Wasn’t the gas tax supposed to be used for roads and bridges? We have some of the highest gas taxes in the country and still can’t afford to maintain our roads. Why do we keep electing thieves like this? And I didn’t think they could put tolls on I-84 and I-91 since those were federally-built roads.
Michael
November 19, 2018 @ 3:30 pm
Maybe we need to use the gas and automobile taxes for The Highways and roads Only and not to pilfer it for other favorite projects.
Jody
November 19, 2018 @ 3:50 pm
The money it takes to fund sanctuary cities is taken from the budget. Period. This is disgusting and wrong. I’m tired of paying for something I did not and will never want.
Pete
November 19, 2018 @ 4:51 pm
Man am I glad I moved out of CT!! Can’t feel too sorry for anyone there, the election wasn’t even close. Republicans (and moderate Dems) should have come out in force to make the change. Continuing to re-elect this current crop of tax and spend twits falls on the shoulders of the voters – now you are truly going to pay ($$$) for your misjudgment.
Myron
November 19, 2018 @ 5:37 pm
If we must have tolls, privatize it, we already have too many state employees only working 35 hours a week and getting better pay and benefits than the taxpayers who are paying them. Then when they retire with their bloated pensions because overtime is figured into the pensions unlike any private pension plans. They move to a state with lower taxes or no income tax.
Christopher Johnson
November 19, 2018 @ 6:11 pm
I wonder if this info got out before the election , we wouldn’t have Lamont. Bend over, more coming. State car tax, increases in income and sales taxes. The state employees pension and health fund’s are each short 36 billion! Guess who pays that.
Gary
November 19, 2018 @ 10:12 pm
The debate over tolls on the Connecticut Turnpike did not end in 1988 with the abolition of tolls. Prior to their removal in 1985, the tolls generated over $65 million annually. Since their removal in the late 1980s, Connecticut lawmakers have continuously discussed reinstating tolls, but have balked at bringing tolls back out of concern of having to repay $2.6 billion in federal highway funds that Connecticut received for Turnpike construction projects following the abolition of tolls.
During the economic recession of the early 1990s, legislators studied reinstating tolls on parts of the Connecticut Turnpike and portions of highways around Hartford to make up for budget deficits. Proposals for reinstating tolls were scrapped in lieu of implementing an income tax and increasing the state gasoline tax and sales tax, and imposing a new tax on corporate windfall profits. remove the state income tax then its what we had to sacrifice when tolls were removed and also 2.6 billion back to the government you dems are on crack..
John
November 20, 2018 @ 5:57 am
Taking a billion plus dollars out of a fragile economy plus everything you buy will be going up in price.
Dan Zaborowski
November 20, 2018 @ 9:14 am
Why is it not on I-395 if they are going to put tolls on the roads. Traffic here going to the casinos would generate more revenue than CT 9 as Well as CT 5.People from the North traveling on I-91 onto CT 2 would this be a penalty for an additional toll?
John Borry
November 20, 2018 @ 11:27 am
Knowing that tolls was an election item, and the Democrats approved this,let all those who voted for you know who pay the tolls and those who voted aginst get a free pass!!!
STANLEY J
November 20, 2018 @ 11:58 am
You got what you voted for, so don’t start crying now. Blame the people who voted Democrat.
Fred LeMay
November 20, 2018 @ 12:10 pm
I am a small business owner. I have trucks that travel in the state . I pay about 3000.00 per truck per year in registration fee and property tax . How much more can we give? As it is there is nothing left at the end of the year . I’m gonna be selling what I have and seeing what’s left for me. Then moving to a business friendly state . Tolls just more administrative permission to mismanage OUR money and pre spend what we already do not have . We’re you folks not paying attention to what the candidates wanted to do when you voted.
marion. F
November 20, 2018 @ 1:59 pm
I enjoy reading the comments here. I think some people may not understand state workers in Ct pay taxes too. Lots of taxes. I live a simple life but can not afford to retire on my earned pension in Ct. I do not even have cable TV. The new tolls and taxes will be an added burden for many people especially the small business owner.. Please don’t assume retired state workers make large pensions. Thank you Len Suzio for keeping us informed.
Lee
November 20, 2018 @ 4:19 pm
Why do they need so many tolls, why can’t you put a toll at each end and 1 in the middle of each of the interstate and the few major highways?
Eric Kratzert
March 5, 2019 @ 2:43 pm
Because they don’t want people to be able to go around them. This is basically, and literally, highway robbery. If you use any major road in the state, they will bill you for it, and they want to make it impossible to avoid. If you don’t pay, they’ll take your registration. That’s why CT relies so heavily on the Gas tax, and that’s why they want to tax your groceries and your over-the-counter meds, because you can’t avoid those things. They are FORCING us to pay more. Let’s get some more democrats in the CT government.
Chris Alonzo
November 21, 2018 @ 7:38 am
I live in CT but I have a NY E-ZPass, for when I travel to NY. I am sure many CT residents have one. Are you suggesting we have to change from a NY E-ZPass to a CT E-EZPass? Or will it be smart enough to know I live in CT, even though it is a NY E-Zpass? If not, can I keep both in my car and will the toll pick the cheaper one?
Bridget
November 21, 2018 @ 8:12 am
What is the difference if you get an E-Z Pass from N.Y, Massachusetts or Connecticut. Looking to get one but don’t know if have to get one or all 3?
Marge
November 21, 2018 @ 8:20 am
Ez passes, as far as I know are not state specific? I use mine every summer and it scans in Mass, NH, and Maine.
Jeff
November 21, 2018 @ 9:34 am
Boycott the toll roads. Leave extra early and congest the hell out of the backroads. Tick off all of the local people which will in turn tick off the local governments. You’ll see the liberals voted out of office locally which will translate to getting rid of the liberals at the state level. Don’t get on 95 in NewHaven. Don’t travel route 8. Don’t hop on 91 or 84 for convenience. Backlog the inner cities and watch the liberals fall from office.
Barbara Paola
November 21, 2018 @ 10:43 am
Connecticut now has even less to offer. We are a pass through state. On I 95 1 or 2 out of every 3 plates are out of state, they are going somewhere else. Why not just have tolls coming into the state on I95 and I84? I’ve had a New Jersey EZpass for 20 years,, I better not need a new one. This pass works in many states, NY, RI, IL, and more that I’ve been to… will everyone be required to get one?
I can’t believe that someone who said he would institute tolls and raise taxes got elected. Why stay here?
Debra
November 21, 2018 @ 9:50 pm
I have an mass e pass. Will this work for ct?
Jay
November 23, 2018 @ 9:59 am
A couple of thoughts… Lots of people have questioned the issue of “multiple EZ-Pass”. I think we in CT are kind of unusual, in that a lot of us have out-of-state EZ-Pass transponders. Back when I got my NY EZ-Pass, a LONG time ago, the EZ-Pass rules stated that you MUST get your EZ-Pass from your state of residence, unless your state had no EZ-Pass. So, I am guessing we would all have to convert to CT EZ- Pass, not because CT says so, but because EZ-Pass says so. As for truck-only tolls… I really think RI is going to lose that court case. In any event, I would not want CT to develop a toll system on that assumption (trucks only) until the legal issues are settled. Lastly, I am not sure why such a conservative bunch here are such advocates of transportation socialism? It seems to make good sense to try to correlate the costs of highway maintenance to the people who use those same roads… am I missing something?
Cliff Fava
March 6, 2019 @ 4:40 pm
Yes you are missing something. Even if you don’t use the roads or drive, the road system still serves you.
Deliveries, commerce, ambulatory care goods and services that we all depend on are mainly transported over the road. They all serve the general driving and non driving public alike. To think that well I do not use the roads so I shouldn’t pay for them is like saying I am an adult and don’t go to school anymore so why should I pay a school tax?
Its called Community.
David
November 23, 2018 @ 8:50 pm
In response to Dan’s comment (on November 16, 2018 at 9:21 AM):
“I do believe that state employees and their pensions have to be reigned in if this state is to survive.”
In contrast to the relatively few very highly paid retirees, the average state employee pension is under $30,000 per year. I’m curious how much of this figure you’d like to reign in. This amount hardly represents extravagant living after a life’s work of 30-40 years in public service.
Those out in the public should understand that state employee salaries pay for local groceries, haircuts, gasoline, restaurants, medical care, morning coffee, gifts, house repairs and maintenance, clothing, movies, rent or mortgage, hardware store items, florists, jewelers, office supplies, snow removal, lawn care, trash removal, car repair and maintenance, photographers, piano teachers, furniture, and much more.
State employees are not piling up stacks of gold coins; they also pay the same taxes that non-State employees pay…and those salaries folks complain about go right back into the local economy, so a vast array of State services are actually provided for very little cost because that money goes right back into taxpayers’ pockets in the form of payment for goods and services such as those listed above…and that helps non-State folks to keep their jobs too.
Brandy
November 25, 2018 @ 6:23 pm
You should be doing tolls going into and out of the state not numerous tolls within the state.
Lynnette
November 25, 2018 @ 6:57 pm
Why are we putting tolls on all highways when most states, especially those in New England, put tolls on one major highway such as I95?
K. Apppegate
November 25, 2018 @ 7:14 pm
Just put tolls on 95,91,and 84, the three most travelled highways like other states do. Glad I don’t need to travel on any proposed toll roads to go back and forth to work.
Joan Baisley
November 25, 2018 @ 7:29 pm
I am against the tolls! I travel to work, to visit my children, one in Fairfield and the other in New York City as well as friends around the state. To add another tax, which is what the tolls would amount to, on me as a semi-retired person living on a very limited income, would be another bill I cannot afford. My dentist is in Wethersfield, I live in Enfield, so even going to get my teeth cleaned, I would be penalized. My suggestion is to thoroughly investigate every department in state government to see where redundancy and waste can be eliminated. Trust me, you put someone who has had to manage on a tightly limited budget, i.e. pretty much anyone who has been helped by the state and government, would be the best group from which to choose someone who can sniff out unnecessary and wasteful spending within minutes!
Josue B
November 25, 2018 @ 9:46 pm
This democracts clounds like to take from the working people to give to the ones that stay home doing nothing and using drugs im a small transportation bussiness owner and also looking into different options to move bussiness. Cannot afford this extra spending after what we have to spend already in registration, taxes, insurance rate, road taxes, ect.
Gary Littlefield
November 27, 2018 @ 12:24 pm
While other states have tolls, Massachusetts only has tolls on the Mass Pike (I90), New Hampshire on I95 for only 23+ miles. Maine has tolls on I95 from York to Augusta and not the rest of the 200+ miles from Augusta to Houlton. New Jersey has tolls on the Garden State and Jersey Turnpike and New York on the bridges within the city and across the Hudson as well as the New York State Turnpike. Connecticuts proposal to put tolls on ALL limited access highways is short-sighted and nothing short of highway robbery. This is simple STEALING of residents and taxpayer dollars.
Julie
November 27, 2018 @ 4:45 pm
I live in Stratford, I work in Wallingford, by looking at this map I would hit (5) tolls along the Merrit Parkway. I would love it if I was able to car pool with my daughter who unfortunately goes the opposite way on the Merrit than I do and she will be hitting (6) tolls. My paycheck is stretched thin as it is without any emergencies now and my daughter who just got married and looking to buy a house near buy might not even be able to afford to buy one with the all the taxes and tolls here! Moving south is looking better and better every time I hear about tolls and new taxes! And as bad as Trump’s mouth is, he is doing a heck of a good job with our economy(as much as he can get past the democrats)!
Judith McLaughlin
November 27, 2018 @ 10:52 pm
If(when)tolls go in, there needs to be a full annual,public disclosure of total revenue raised per highway, administrative costs/salaries relating to the toll collections and oversight, value of contracts and companies contracted with, full cost and location of all improvement projects and % of federal aid per project.
Jack laflamme
March 9, 2019 @ 2:56 pm
Dear CT RESIDENTS !
Do you really believe that tolls will be used to improve roadways. That is pure BS from all of you elected officials. I travel the Mass Pike frequently and this road really is in terrible shape pavement as well as bridges in dire repair. Taking into consideration that 10’s of thousand people “park” on this road daily you really have to ask where the heck is all of the money going from excessive tolls.
My daughters live in Ct and you can bet your as* that I will avoid costly tolls and elect to travel non toll roads
Ct residents you need to dump some politicians that all have their hand in your pocket checkbook and bank accounts. Enough is enough!!!
Cor
November 28, 2018 @ 5:38 pm
So the gas tax would be removed?
will
November 29, 2018 @ 9:29 am
Until the people in Connecticut wake up and understand the politicians only like to spend on things that will get them elected will the state change. why do big businesses leave? why do companies layoff workers. Take a guess how many people exit the state each year and then guess how many come in. Tolls will only be to add to the bucket of money they can spend on useless projects. Pull a copy of the state budget and you will see a line item called personal expenses for every department . then try to get information on the items they call personal expense. Coffee and donuts?
MVRC
November 29, 2018 @ 9:45 am
Dont blame me… i voted and my vote didnt count, and truly has NEVER counted in this freaking state. Im born and raised in CT and i completely ashamed to tell people where i live, the “UNCONSTITUTIONAL STATE”. Lucky for me, 90% of my travel in this hell hole is non highway, but enough is enough. Just when we get the chance to rid ourselves of the moron Malloy the idiots of this state just vote in another moron. Why is everyone here whining about whether their NY EZ-Pass will work in CT or if you need more the one, your most likely the idiots that voted for this complete non-sense anyways. Are you that stupid that you dont realize you stupid NY EZ-Pass works in Ma, NH, basically the entire New England area? If i didnt love my job I would move so far away from this damn place and the idiots here in a flash, im just counting down the days until i can find a better job and rid myself of this crap!
Dave
November 29, 2018 @ 12:14 pm
So if you put tolls on Rt 9 which has traffic lights in Middletown, I would expect all this additional income will lead to the removal of those lights? Its asnine to charge a toll on a limited access highway which has multiple lights that cause traffic jams and accidents.
Joe
December 1, 2018 @ 11:17 am
I agree with MVRC, I’ve lived in this state and my vote only counted twice and here we go with another idiot running and ruining this state even further, when will the voters in this states learn?
P.Springer
December 7, 2018 @ 10:01 am
We spent 30+ years in CT raising our family. Now that our family is out on their own, it was just my wife and I, who both worked our entire lives. We realized early on that CT was clearly not the place to retire. After we both retired we moved to Florida just south of Tampa Bay. We have no income tax, a hugh state slush fund, good roads and highways and a very comfortable life here. It’s a shame that the Democrats have ruined Connecticut with all these ridiculous taxes. These new toll locations are nothing more that a drive/mileage tax. As numerous residents exit CT for good, someone will have to make up the tax deficit so you can expect even more taxes down the road. As long as Democrats rule CT, it will continue to turn CT into a state that no one wants to live in. So very disappointing but you can blame those who have voted the party line for Democrats all these years, as eventually they’ll be the only ones living in Connecticut!
Nick
March 7, 2019 @ 7:57 pm
Last i was in fla you had tolls ….. a republican instituted tolls in Connecticut and a democrat took them out and probably should not have CT has always been expensive and we have not fared any better under republicans one gave the income tax one did nothing and the other went to prison so stop with your un educated blame game
barry
March 10, 2019 @ 4:03 pm
yes and ct is the most unfriendly state for retirees..even NY is better. CT taxes all your SS and pensions. NY is bad but they dont tax govt pensions or SS.
Bill L
January 19, 2019 @ 12:30 pm
Here we go again, Democrats spending money that don’t have. The money they get from these tolls will not smell very good because the people will be pulling it from their A$$es to pay yet another TAX ! When will the voters in this state ever learn? They keep voting in these democratic liberals who give away money and benefits to EVERYBODY! WAKE UP !!!
CTDEMhater
February 1, 2019 @ 10:55 am
MVRC – You must be my identical twin or living in my head. I agree whole heartedly. F-CT. I am so beyond done. I used to love this state but no more. Unconstitutional State is an understatement. Not only taxes but the landgrab BS that has gone on here as well is embarrassing. Wish I could change my CT license plate to say “despicable state”.
Ken C
March 5, 2019 @ 10:06 pm
Hey Gov. you missed a spot! You could complete Rte. 7 from Norwalk to Danbury and squeeze in 3 or 4 more tolls!
Ken Crepeau
March 6, 2019 @ 1:16 pm
Hey Gov. you missed a spot! You could complete Rte. 7 from Norwalk to Danbury and squeeze in 3 or 4 more tolls!
Bill M.
March 6, 2019 @ 3:13 pm
We need these tolls. I’m not rich, but our roads and bridges are falling apart. Every state around us has tolls. Out of state trucks and cars are getting a free ride through CT. Maybe with tolls how about lowering the gas tax. I drove from CT to Norfolk VA and back It cost about $70 in tolls. Crazy! Let’s use that money to fix our roads and bridges.
Cliff Fava
March 6, 2019 @ 4:44 pm
For those out of state drivers, passenger cars and trucks transiting our state without EZ Pass, how will we collect the toll?
If the state thinks that they will pay by mail, the state is kidding itself.
In the end only those of us with a vulnerable Conn registration or license will have to pick up the shortfall.
To think that tolls never go up is to continue to fool ourselves
John
March 7, 2019 @ 7:07 pm
Congratulations Connecticut…..it’s nice to know Rhode Island isn’t the only state controlled by Democrats who keep finding new ways to suck your tax dollars from you….
It seems to me you need to take a hard look at the people you voted for…..here in Rhode Island people are leaving for states that are taxpayer friendly…..maybe Connecticut taxpayers should do the same…..last one out….turn the lights off….
Mich
March 8, 2019 @ 3:51 pm
The EZ-passes are connected to bank accounts or credit cards – they benefit the credit card companies – they take out money in advance and hold it, ostensibly as a debit; however, all the $25s, 45s or however much they take they can invest and make more, or charge fees when they cannot access. THEN also, there is the issue of citizens who cannot afford to have a credit card or bank account, they will be mailed a bill and charged extra for being poor?
Tom
March 28, 2019 @ 7:10 pm
There are already new poured large concrete pads with very deep footings with huge bolts in the area of Ansonia where the map indicates a potential toll gantry on Route 8 (going north and south).
I have seen pads of that size used at several points on Route 8 that support traffic signs. I have also seen pads of that size supporting 12 inch diameter poles for traffic lights in Bridgeport.
Perhaps its paranoia but I plan to contact my state rep tomorrow.
John
May 7, 2019 @ 7:25 pm
Thanks Tom,
I work in Ansonia and was wondering what the holes were for. It is really sad that the Democrats are going to shove another form of taxation down our throats. This is not efficient as 30% or more will be wasted in just the collection. So I will stop using route 8 every day and use back roads. Hopefully in neighborhoods that voted democratic. Until I can get out of the state they ruined.
Rebecca
April 4, 2019 @ 9:23 am
My husband will pass 8 tolls each way costing 1250.00 per year in new taxes for our family. In addition, Ct is proposing to increase taxes on my all ready struggling small business. when everyone moves out of this state the tolls are going to be the only income for the state because there will be no people here!
Ace
April 10, 2019 @ 5:47 pm
Go to Florida
Ace
April 10, 2019 @ 5:55 pm
Shop online AMAZON….and don’t drive to stores. Good bye retail
Joseph Piscitelli
April 13, 2019 @ 9:01 am
Retail Stores are leaving the state already, when the Tolls are in place there will be a massive Exiting of the remain stores.
There are so many other options.
New CT Lottery
Cannabis
Toll the Trucks ONLY, there the Vehicles that are doing the most damage to the roads.
Samuel Lee
April 22, 2019 @ 10:24 am
Tolling goes up %6 per year in PA…
I predict the same will happen in CT..
https://www.mcall.com/business/transportation/road-warrior/mc-nws-road-warrior-turnpike-needs-immediate-reconsideration-20190321-story.html