Indiana Department plans to convert state highways into tollways by 2025

House Bill 1461, introduced in the Indiana House on April 17, 2025, seeks to amend existing legislation regarding the establishment of tollways on state highways. The bill aims to streamline the process for converting certain highways into toll roads, particularly focusing on the operational and financial aspects of toll collection.

One of the key provisions of House Bill 1461 allows the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) to determine that a state highway should become a tollway, contingent upon the approval of the governor. This process includes the requirement for INDOT to submit a plan to upgrade the tollway to current design standards within a five-year timeframe. The bill also outlines that tolls can be levied and collected either directly by INDOT or through a public-private partnership.

A significant aspect of the bill is its provision that exempts certain projects from needing additional legislative approval to become tollways. Specifically, projects initiated after June 30, 2011, and those that add toll lanes without reducing the number of existing nontolled lanes are included. This exemption is designed to facilitate the development of toll infrastructure without the delays often associated with legislative processes.

Debate surrounding House Bill 1461 has centered on concerns about the financial implications for motorists and the potential impact on traffic patterns. Critics argue that tolls could disproportionately affect low-income drivers and may lead to increased congestion on nontolled roads as drivers seek to avoid tolls. Supporters, however, contend that tolls are a necessary means to fund infrastructure improvements and maintain road quality.

The economic implications of the bill are noteworthy, as the introduction of tolls could generate significant revenue for the state, potentially funding further transportation projects and maintenance. However, the social implications, particularly regarding equity and access to transportation, remain a contentious point of discussion.

As House Bill 1461 progresses through the legislative process, its outcomes could reshape Indiana's transportation landscape, influencing both infrastructure funding and the daily commuting experience for residents. The bill's future will depend on ongoing discussions among lawmakers, stakeholders, and the public as they weigh the benefits of improved roadways against the costs of tolls.