ABINGDON, Va. (AP) – Cars and commercial trucks could face tolls along Interstate 81 under a state plan to pay for needed improvements to the roadway.
The Bristol Herald Courier reports Virginia transportation officials unveiled details of the draft plan this week during a hearing in Abingdon. The General Assembly ordered the study to identify needed improvements along the 325-mile route between Bristol and Winchester.
Other funding options include an increase in the retail sales and use tax or imposing a regional fuels tax.
The tolling plan has drawn opposition from the Virginia Manufacturers Association, which says it would hurt businesses.
A public comment period runs through Nov. 30. The plan will go to the Commonwealth Transportation Board, which is expected to finalize it and forward it to state lawmakers for the 2019 session.
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