Politics & Government

Winslow Calls for End to Boston Resident Toll Deal

State Rep. Dan Winslow is looking to end discounts for near-Boston residents.

State Rep. Dan Winslow (R-Norfolk) is calling for an end to the toll deal for commuters from East Boston, Charlestown, Chelsea and other towns in the immediate Boston area.

According to Winslow, the deal shifts about $7 million onto the commuters from farther-flung towns. He has filed a budget amendment to end the deal.

"A resident of East Boston has a choice of subway, bus or boat to commute to Boston, but if they ignore all these public transit options and get into their car to drive into the city, MassDOT gives them an 87 percent discount on their tolls in the tunnels or over the bridge," Winslow said. "That discount shifts added costs onto everyone else who already is paying $3 per trip.  Everyone should pay their fair share."

Find out what's happening in Wrenthamfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

According to Winslow, the additional funds could be used for regional public transportation.

"There is no sound public policy for treating people differently," Winslow said. "We all should pay our fair share for well-maintained roads, tunnels and bridges and this amendment will eliminate toll discounts based on place of residence."

Winslow represents Plainville, Wrentham, Norfolk, Millis, Walpole and Medfield.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

More from Wrentham