Tolls possible for I-64 improvements

HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) - Due to lack of government funding, tolls may fund road improvements on Interstate 64 from Hampton to Richmond.

VDOT says the stretch of Interstate 64 from Hampton to Richmond needs improvements to ease congestion, reduce travel delays and increase safety.

The cost to do this is between $4 and $7 billion and an option to pay for it includes tolling, either of all vehicles or just vehicles in express lanes.

View a map of the project.

"I just think it's the right thing to do," driver Pam Thompson said. "Somebody's got to pay for it. I figure we should contribute. It's benefiting us in the long run."

Other drivers do not agree.

"I will not support tolls for road fees," Moses Newsome said. "I believe the local and state governments need to pull the money from somewhere else."

VDOT spokesperson Tamara Rollison says there is no state or federal funding to pay for the project.

"Also, at this time, there have been no state or federal agreements to allow tolling on that stretch of I-64, so tolling may or may not be a possibility," Rollison said.

The agency is asking for public comment in writing by January 7 or at hearings next month over three consecutive nights in Williamsburg, Newport News and Richmond held at the following locations and times:

• Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, 5 - 8 p.m.
  Bruton High School
  185 E. Rochambeau Drive
  Williamsburg
• Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012, 5 - 8 p.m.
  City Center Conference Room
  Fountain Plaza II
  700 Town Center Drive
  Newport News
• Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012, 5 - 8 p.m.
  VDOT Central Office Auditorium
  1221E.Broad St.
  Richmond