Funding
The estimated cost of construction of the I-83 South Bridge Project is between $500 million to $650 million.
PennDOT Pathways is a program to identify and implement alternative funding solutions for Pennsylvania's transportation system. As Pennsylvania's mobility needs have grown, the amount of funding required to support our transportation system has continued to increase. Much of our current funding comes from gas taxes and driver and vehicle fees. While this model worked well in the past, circumstances today have made it unsustainable. With PennDOT Pathways, we're looking for reliable, future-focused funding solutions that will meet our growing needs while serving our communities and all Pennsylvanians for generations to come.
PennDOT currently faces an $8.1 billion gap in annual highway and bridge funding. This means we aren't generating enough funds to properly maintain, restore and expand our transportation system. We're taking action to find reliable sources of funding through the PennDOT Pathways program.
For more information about PennDOT Pathways, visit www.penndot.gov/funding.
One of the funding solutions we are studying is the implementation of bridge tolls on major bridge projects across the state. The I-83 South Bridge Project is one of several projects being evaluated as a candidate for bridge tolling as a part of the PennDOT Pathways Major Bridge P3 Initiative. You can learn more about the program and initiative at the link above.
A bridge toll is a fee that drivers pay when using a specific bridge, often by using a service like E-ZPass. The funds received from this toll would go right back to the South Bridge to pay for its construction, maintenance and operation.
As part of the EA, we are evaluating the effect bridge tolling may have on local communities from traffic diverting onto other roads to avoid paying the toll. Part of this analysis will look at potential impacts to low-income and minority populations. We will continue to work closely with you and your communities as the project advances and our EA is prepared.