Mass. Pike: Double tolls at airport tunnels

BOSTON—The Massachusetts Turnpike Authority on Friday approved a plan to raise tolls on the eastern end of the highway.

The board adopted recommendations calling for a 75 cent increase in the tolls at the Weston and Allston-Brighton tollbooths, from the current $1.25 to $2. The board also voted to double the tolls at the Sumner and Ted Williams tunnels to $7.

Fast Lane users would get a discount, paying $1.50 at the Weston and Allston-Brighton interchanges and $6 in the tunnels.

At least two public hearings must be held before the board can give final approval to the toll increases, which are expected to raise $100 million to help pay off Big Dig debt.

Turnpike Chairman Bernard Cohen said the massive debt gave the authority no other choice but to raise tolls.

The board vote was 4-1, with the dissenting vote cast by Mary Connaughton.