Bridge staff: no toll increase proposed yet; industry urges inclusion in study

City bridge staff told the advisory committee the management team is compiling multiple efficiency studies and has not yet finalized any proposed increases to the bridge toll system.

“We still haven't finalized any toll, any proposed bridal toll system increases,” Elsin Afosa, Bridge Department staff, said. Staff told the committee they hope to have study results for committee review by December.

Industry participants at the meeting urged inclusion in stakeholder discussions. An industry representative said, “it's not the best time for our industry to take a hit,” and asked that businesses be given the opportunity to comment as staff completes the study.

Committee members also discussed how bridge toll revenues have historically been allocated. A committee member noted a 1998 resolution that directs 50% of increased bridge toll revenue to the city general fund; staff said the remaining 50% is retained for bridge operations and maintenance. That 1998 resolution was referenced at the meeting but specific citation details were not provided.

Several advisory members suggested alternative framing if an increase becomes necessary — for example, tying revenues to infrastructure improvements such as road or interchange work that directly benefits freight movement rather than directing funds to the general fund.

There was no formal vote on toll increases during the meeting. Bridge management said the study will include stakeholder scenarios and take account of existing contracts, agreements and debt service before any proposal is drafted.

Staff asked for the committee’s participation in the study process and said any proposed increases would be presented for review before action, with a tentative timeline that could produce results by December, according to staff comments to the group.