A Times Editorial  Toll bridge across bay isn't the way to go
The declaration by Gov. Rick Scott's transportation secretary
that drivers could pay tolls to cross a new Howard Frankland
Bridge reflects a radical shift in state philosophy and a lack
of understanding about Tampa Bay. The last thing this region
needs as it seeks to become a seamless economic and cultural
force are bridge tolls that would divide us. A new bridge that
can accommodate express lanes and rail is a necessity that will
benefit everyone, and its cost should be shared by all.
Transportation Secretary Ananth Prasad told the Tampa Bay Times
editorial board that tolls will have to help pay for major new
bridges and additional highway lanes along Interstates 4, 75 and
275. Gas tax revenue that has traditionally paid for
transportation projects has been declining even as gas prices
rise, because the tax is assessed by the gallon and vehicles are
more fuel efficient. Prasad said the Howard Frankland's
northbound span, scheduled to be replaced