A Maryland lawmaker is calling on the state to reduce the tolls charged to use the Intercounty Connector.
Montgomery County Councilman Phil Andrews says the ICC is underused, but cutting the cost would put more cars on the highway that links Laurel and Gaithersburg.
Drivers pay $8 per day for a round-trip rush-hour commute on the ICC. Andrews says that rate is among the highest in the nation. The ICC began charging a toll one year ago Wednesday, following a free trial period.
"I would propose at least a trial period of several months, if not, a year when the tolls would be... cut in half, in hopes of doubling the traffic, which would produce the same amount of revenue but twice the [usage]," Andrews said.
The decision, though, is up to the Maryland Transportation Authority, whose members are appointed by Gov. Martin O'Malley.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
