The Burlington County Bridge Commission says that two bridges along the Delaware River will not increase in tolls next year.
The $2 round-trip toll on the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol bridges will not go up in 2014. It will mark the 13th consecutive year that tolls on both bridges have not been increased.
“It may not be a new message, but it’s one I’m proud to keep recycling. We’re not raising tolls—our bridges remain the best bargain around,” said Bridge Commission Chairman John Comegno.
Comegno says their $37.4 million capital budget will continue to allow them to work on an aggressive maintenance program that will help to maintain the integrity and safety of the bridges. Future improvements include painting both bridges and protecting the steel structures from rust and corrosion. It’s a plan they say has saved taxpayers $16 million.
“I continue to be impressed - even amazed - by the stellar maintenance program that is constantly improving and preserving our bridges and facilities. We are continually raising the standards of excellent bridge operations and proactive maintenance,” said Vice-Chairman James Fattorini.
Other planned projects include replacement of the Electrical Powerhouses on the Pennsylvania side of both bridges. These structures contain electrical connections that provide power to the moveable bridge parts that open the bridges to marine traffic and illuminate the structures at night, according to Comegno.
More than 1.5 million vehicles cross both bridges each year.
Sources: Tacony-Palmyra/ Burlington Bristol Bridge Facts
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