Search
 

Legislator Considers Options to Cover Big Dig Costs

BOSTON-The most recent suggestions to cover the huge cost overruns on the Big Dig, the massive highway construction project in the heart of the city here, include a structured toll hike and an increase in the gas tax.

By Naomi Grossman | Updated on August 16, 2001

BOSTON-As the reality of the rising costs of the Big Dig, the massive highway construction project in the heart of the city here, begins to sink in, state legislators are trying to come up with ways to pay for the project. Toll hikes and tax increases on gas–once considered off-limits–are being considered as the costs of the project balloon to $14.475 billion.

Representative Joseph P. Sullivan, co-chairman of the legislature’s transportation committee, did not return calls by press time, but he reportedly called for a look at the possibility of a gas tax increase and restructuring the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority’s toll to pay for the cost overruns.

The Turnpike Authority has already raised the issue of increasing tolls starting in January but Sullivan would like to see the tolls restructured with discount programs. Other suggestions include raising the fees during peak periods and charging for use of the Central Artery. At recent public hearings on toll hikes, the public opposition was clear, but the recognition that the Authority does not have many other options is also increasingly evident. Recent estimates have raised the cost of the project by $100 million.

Want to continue reading?
Become a Free ALM Digital Reader.

Once you are an ALM digital member, you’ll receive:

  • Unlimited access to GlobeSt and other free ALM publications
  • Access to 15 years of GlobeSt archives
  • Your choice of GlobeSt digital newsletters and over 70 others from popular sister publications
  • 1 free article* every 30 days across the ALM subscription network
  • Exclusive discounts on ALM events and publications

*May exclude premium content
Already have an account?

NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.

GlobeSt

Join GlobeSt

Don't miss crucial news and insights you need to make informed commercial real estate decisions. Join GlobeSt.com now!

  • Free unlimited access to GlobeSt.com's trusted and independent team of experts who provide commercial real estate owners, investors, developers, brokers and finance professionals with comprehensive coverage, analysis and best practices necessary to innovate and build business.
  • Exclusive discounts on ALM and GlobeSt events.
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including ThinkAdvisor.com and Law.com.

Already have an account? Sign In Now
Join GlobeSt

Copyright © 2024 ALM Global, LLC. All Rights Reserved.