New Hampshire's Proposed Toll Increase: What You Need To Know

Just before the busy Summer season, New Hampshire is talking about increasing the toll cost for out of state residents.

According tot he Keene Sentinel, a bill that talks about doubling the tolls for out of state residents is getting momentum in NH Legislature. The Governor, however, opposes the bill.

Tolls Have Not Increased in New Hampshire in Many Years

Many people who are for the bill say the tolls have not increased in price in 19 years and the money is needed for highway projects and bridge repair. Also, New Hampshire has the lowest toll rate in the U.S. In comparison, Massachusetts tolls are higher and many other states charge non residents a higher fee. Especially on the Tobin Bridge.

Also, aren't there tolls going to the Cape? I seem to recall that the last time we went to visit family down there.

Governor Ayotte opposes the bill which the article says would bring in about $50 million dollars annually.

If the bill is approved and put into law, the toll price for non residents would increase from $1 to $2 at the toll booth in Bedford and Hooksett and from $2 to $4 in Hampton. Dover and Rochester tolls would increase from .75 cents to $1.50.

Would the Increased Tolls Discourage Tourists?

Would the increased tolls for non residents discourage them from visiting? What about the person who lives in Massachusetts or Maine and works in New Hampshire? They would have to pay double if they went through the toll booth every day?

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That's why I'm glad I don't make those kind of decisions. There is a lot to think about.

I'm sure that safety is a big issue for everyone that lives here in New Hampshire, including the Governor, so there has to be some sort of solution for the repairs that need to be made, especially for the bridges.