Cash tolls on Pa. Turnpike to rise 10% in 2012

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Fares on the Pennsylvania Turnpike will rise 10 percent for cash-paying customers in 2012, but those using E-ZPass won’t see an increase.

The turnpike commission approved the change at its meeting today to generate approximately $23 million in new revenue next year.

Nearly two-thirds of turnpike travelers already use E-ZPass. The commission says those customers currently get as much as a 7 percent savings on tolls and will be able to save about 17 percent next year.

The extra money is needed to help pay off bonds that fund highway improvements and mass transit systems around the state.

Gov. Tom Corbett has pledged to oppose all tax and fee increases. A spokesman didn’t immediately respond to a message seeking comment on whether the governor opposes the increase.