Interstate 81 tolls nixed

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The federal government's preliminary approval of tolls on parts of Interstate 95 in Virginia contained an addendum heartening to Shenandoah Valley residents: cancellation of plans to impose tolls on Interstate 81.

The idea, which was opposed vociferously by residents and localities up and down the Valley, was always a long shot. Del. Todd Gilbert, R-Woodstock, and state Sen. Mark Obenshain, R-Harrisonburg, persuaded the General Assembly to pass a bill giving it a veto over any tolls on I-81.

But, as recently as May, Virginia Transportation Secretary Sean Connaughton told the Blue Ridge Business Journal that "I-81 is up there for consideration for tolling" under a federal pilot program. However, that program is limited to only three parts of the interstate highway system and the McDonnell administration chose to give priority to I-95.

Gov. Bob McDonnell said Monday, "The ability to toll I-95 will help leverage this investment by funding transportation improvements in this vital corridor." Under federal rules the toll money, estimated at $50 million a year, has to be used on I-95.

As for I-81, the second most heavily traveled interstate in Virginia, the Virginia Department of Transportation has dropped its gargantuan plan to widen the route to four lanes with two dedicated to truck traffic. Instead it is undertaking safety projects and a study of rail improvements.

The federal decision puts another nail in the coffin of I-81 tolls. The route needs improvements, but without the tolling option, the grandiose plans Valley residents have so determinedly fought are dead.