DOT Deadline On Toll Statements Approaching
The DOT will accept written testimonials on the impact of a toll on the Sakonnet River Bridge by the deadline on Jan. 18.
The following is based on a press release from the state Department of Transportation.
Residents must submit personal statements to the state Department of Transportation (DOT) on how a toll on the Sakonnet River Bridge would impact their lives by Jan. 18.
All comments will be included the DOT's environmental impact survey to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Ultimately, the FHWA will rule on whether a toll can be installed on the Sakonnet River Bridge, based upon the findings of the environmental and economic impact statements.
According to DOT Director Michael P. Lewis, the reports will be filed with the FHWA by the end of the month.
In December, the DOT held hearings in Portsmouth and Tiverton to hear residents concerns on the impact of a toll on their neighborhoods and local economy. Public input on the possible impacts of a toll is an integral element in the impact surveys.
To include your personal comments, submit a statement prior to the close of business on Jan. 18.
Submit concerns via email at customerservice@dot.ri.gov.
Submit statements via mail at:
Rhode Island Department of Transportation
2 Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02903
ATTN: Customer Service
If you would like to learn more about Rhode Island's approach to tolling and the expected timeline for the process, please visit the DOT website.
Melissa Greenman
3:33 pm on Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Please no tolls!! We can't afford anymore and will KILL tourism on the island. I live in Tiverton and already pay enough money going over the newport bridge. Please consider the economy and how it will effect business . I go over the Sakonett bridge every day ... PLEASSSSE figure out another way for revenue in RI. There will be no way to get on the island without paying unless you go through Bristol and just think of the traffic nightmare that would accumulate in high season !!! Please no tolls!! I work in the hospitality industry and it would greatly affect our business. People from other parts of RI already don't go to Newport because of the tolls! Please hear us! Thank you!!!