[clue-talk] The stimulus bill

[Brian Gibson]

Camera takes a picture and if you don't have the toll transponder, they mail you a bill.



----- Original Message ----
From: Angelo Bertolli <angelo.bertolli at gmail.com>
To: CLUE talk <clue-talk at cluedenver.org>
Sent: Friday, February 6, 2009 12:06:46 AM
Subject: Re: [clue-talk] The stimulus bill

Brian Gibson wrote:
> I'm more than willing to put in my fair share as a citizen of this state who uses highways (including I-70), as well as a citizen of this country who benefits from the interstate commerce that passes along the route.  However, I don't plan on footing the entire bill myself, unless the state is willing to cede ownership.  If such an expansion happens, I expect state and federal taxes to be used, perhaps supplemented by private contributions, which is how most major infrastructure projects get done.  Another option would be to charge a toll (a use tax) which has been proposed to help raise the necessary capital.  Make those who use it the most take the brunt of the cost.  But tolls have a habit of lingering long after their original intent, and tolls tend to ratchet upwards.  E-470 just went up $0.25, which I believe is to pay for the video toll system they're putting in place which will cost less to run than the manned booths.  What I don't understand is
>  if the system saves money, why do the drivers have to pay more?

I'll make a guess, based on supply and demand.  I don't know how these video tolls work, but if they're more convenient for the customer then it stands to reason they can charge more.  With the added convenience, they can probably get the same number of cars (or more) even at a higher price.  Isn't that really what matters?  Maximizing the price point while minimizing maintenance.

Angelo


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