An 80% increase in 2 years
The state is considering raising the maximum toll rate along the busy highway from $15 to $18.
BOTHELL — The state is again looking for public comment on I-405 tolling as it considers raising rates and weekend tolling.
The Washington State Transportation Commission is considering raising the maximum toll rate along the busy highway from $15 to $18. This is to “manage congestion and keep traffic in the express toll lanes at 45 mph at least 90 percent of the time,” a state press release stated.
The commission is also looking at weekend tolling from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. That’s consistent with tolling on Highway 167. Tolls increased this year, as well. Previously, the maximum toll was $10 and the minimum was $0.75. Those changed to $15 and $1, respectively.
“Toll rate and policy changes are anticipated to go into effect with the opening of new express toll lanes currently under construction on I-405 from Bellevue to Renton,” the release said. “These new lanes are estimated to open in late 2025.”
In 2019, the Legislature dedicated $605 million for improvements, but when the state issued the contract last year the price had risen to $834 million. Inflation was the main reason for the rise in price, state officials said earlier this year. With more electric and hybrid vehicles on the road, there’s also a worry gas taxes won’t raise enough for transportation improvements.
Express toll lanes on the interstate use what’s called a dynamic price system. Drivers only see the maximum toll rate when the lanes are nearing capacity, which happens a small percentage of the time.
In 2023, I-405 toll lanes generated $25.8 million from 9 million trips, according to the state’s annual toll report.
The online survey at https://wstcfeedback.participate.online/ is open until Dec. 13. The commission will review the findings in early 2025.
