State considers tolls for I-5 express lanes
The state is considering tolling the I-5 express lanes through North Seattle, charging drivers up to $5.50 for a faster commute.
For drivers able and willing to pay, the toll would shave six minutes off a rush-hour trip, a preliminary report estimates. Daily traffic would increase in the other lanes, and make the commute there slower.
Carpools of three or more people wouldn't have to pay.
Toll revenue could support $185 million in construction bonds to help pay for repairs on the aging highway, or for improvements such as adding a third northbound lane downtown.
Money would be collected electronically, primarily through the "Good to Go" windshield transponders, when cars cross the Ship Canal Bridge.
Tolls might begin in five years, and vary from $1.55 midday to $4.30 in the morning peak or $5.50 in afternoon peak, in 2016 dollars.
