The Washington State Transportation Commission selected tolling rates for additional public comment for the new State Route 99 tunnel in Seattle. Rates would range from $1 to $2.25.
Weekday tolls would peak from 7 to 9 a.m. at $1.50 and from 3 to 6 p.m. at $2.25. Weekends would have $1 rates. Toll rates would increase three percent every three years beginning in 2022.
This tolling plan was considered 'Option A' and is designed to pay off the tunnel by 2046. At that point, the state legislature would decide whether to reduce or eliminate the toll altogether.
The commission spent over a year studying toll rates, possible exemptions, and traffic impacts of tolling. The goal is to generate enough revenue to cover specific costs, including toll operations, maintenance, and construction debt payments. Initial toll rates will not cover future repair and replacement costs.
The commission will review future toll increases, while the state legislature will determine if toll revenue should cover other costs.
