Letter to the Editor: I-80 Tolling
November 2, 2009
Dear Editor:
The Rendell administration, along with PA Turnpike officials, have filed a new application to install tolls on Interstate 80. This action comes despite loud protest from Pennsylvania businesses, which correctly argue that the massive cost of paying these tolls will undermine their attempts to maintain jobs and revive an already reeling economy.
Simultaneously, a statewide grand jury based in Pittsburgh is investigating patronage and possible “pay to play” contracts at the PA Turnpike Commission, long known for notorious excessive spending, patronage and nepotism. (See Pittsburgh Tribune Review 2005).
While turnpike officials dine out at five-star restaurants, Pennsylvania businesses and taxpayers are being told that tolling I-80 will be necessary to pay for some $900 million in road and infrastructure improvements.
The real story is this: If government officials would eliminate the corruption, fraud and abuse associated with the Turnpike Commission, there would be no need to toll I-80. In fact, if managed correctly, the turnpike could easily operate with a net profit that could be used to retire its debt and ultimately eliminate tolls, which was the original intent of the legislation that formed the turnpike.
On behalf of our 4,780 member companies, we ask all Pennsylvania businesses and taxpayers to express their outrage and opposition to this most recent attempt by Harrisburg to place another unnecessary financial burden on the state’s already overtaxed citizens.
Sincerely,
Ralph Pontillo
President
MBA