Governor Gina Raimondo announced the details of a ten year plan to fix Rhode Island’s ailing roads and bridges by levying additional tolls on commercial trucks traveling through the state.
The $4.8 billion plan dubbed “Rhode Works” would use funds generated by the new truck tolls through 2027 to go towards the repair of the 650 combined bridges and overpasses in need of attention.
“The fact of the matter is, we can’t wait any longer, and frankly as Governor I am tired of being last; the Chamber of Commerce rates Rhode Island bridges 50 out of 50 in the country and it’s time we stop being last,” said Raimondo.
Raimondo’s announcement confirms speculation brought to light by State Senator Nick Kettle (R-Coventry) that the state was looking for new ways to bring in money to put towards roads and bridges.
To help accelerate the repair efforts, Raimondo is requesting a $700 million revenue bond to go immediately into infrastructure repair, with $400 million in additional funds coming from the federal government.
The Governor is touting the plan not only as a savior for the roads, but also as a driver for the economy.
“It will put 12,000 people to work annually; we’re going to create thousands of jobs while we do this and save tax payers a billion dollars,” said Raimondo to the sound of applause.
The plan would place tolling infrastructure along I-95, 195, 295, 146, and routes 6 and 10. State leadership was quick to point out passenger vehicles and smaller, 2-axel trucks would be exempt from the toll. House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello said he understands Rhode Islander’s apprehension regarding tolls.
“I understand the fear that any fee can be expanded; however in this case I can tell you […] this will not be expanded,” said Mattiello.
The Governor’s plan states that Rhode Island is behind the curve when it comes to tolling commercial vehicles; her proposal shows almost all New England states, save for Connecticut, assess a fee to tractor trailers.
“The fact of the matter is,” said Raimondo “Those are the trucks that cause 90-plus-percent of the damages on our highways and bridges.”
“To assess a modest user fee is a creative way of financing [Rhode Works], continued Raimondo.”
The local trucking industry has already come out against the plan, saying it only burdens businesses which pay their fair share of taxes.
