Driving South to Illinois is Going to Cost You (Even More)

Greenfield residents with family, friends or business relationships south of the border will need a fatter wallet or a drink cup in their car filled with quarters starting next year.

According to a story by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the Illinois Toll Highway Authority announced Thursday that it would be raising its rates 88 percent in order to fund a $12 billion road improvement project.

Those with an I-PASS, the electronic device that allows drivers to pay tolls without stopping at a toll booth, will experience an increase for the first time in 28 years. According to the story, the average toll will rise from $0.35 to $0.70, with increases planned for even the most expensive tolls.

Rates also vary for those paying with cash, and those without an I-PASS will see another increase in 2015.

"They need to take notes from (Gov. Scott) Walker on how not to raise fees and taxes," Lisa Dziedzic posted on Greenfield Patch's Facebook page.

According to a story by the Kane County Chronicle, the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority Board approved the hike by a 7-1 vote. The road project is expected to create an estimated 120,000 jobs.

To read the Palatine, IL Patch story on the hike, .