Illinois toll rates will nearly double

CHICAGO (AP) - Members of the Illinois Tollway board have approved a plan that will nearly double tolls to pay for a more than $12 billion highway construction plan.

The board voted 7-1 Thursday in favor of the increase, which goes into effect Jan. 1. Bill Morris of Grayslake was the only board member who opposed the hike.

• A look at the Illinois toll rate changes (.PDF)

Under the plan, basic I-Pass toll rates would increase from 40 cents to 75 cents. Drivers who pay cash will continue to pay twice what I-Pass users pay.

The extra money will be used to fund a 15-year capital project that includes plans to widen and rebuild the Jane Addams Tollway between Rosemont and Rockford. The project also includes a new interchange to connect Interstate 294 and Interstate 57 and other improvements.