The toll rates for bridges over the Ohio River have increased by 3.4% on July 1, prompting frustration among citizens who have to pay annually rising fees for crossing. Hoosier Action, a community organization, is urging Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb to intervene and help reduce costs. The organization has launched an online petition to alleviate the financial burden for commuters. The petition primarily asks for toll-free crossings when other bridges are closed and proposes financial assistance for low-income individuals. Riverlink, the entity responsible for toll rates, justifies the increases as necessary to meet financial obligations for bridge maintenance.
While toll rates typically rise by 2.5% annually, this year’s 3.4% increase has raised concerns among residents, impacting their daily expenses. Organizers emphasize the need for more affordable options to avoid financial strain on commuters. One organizer, known as Nathan, highlighted the difficulty of affording toll fees, stating that it could equate to a week’s worth of groceries for some individuals. Despite the slight decrease in this year’s rate increase compared to the previous year, the impact on the community remains significant.
To support the petition and learn more about the efforts to address the toll bridge costs, individuals can visit the Hoosier Action website for additional information. The ongoing debate over toll rates and the potential financial hardships faced by commuters continue to be a pressing issue for residents in the area.
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