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ascentoffailure t1_j0t0hue wrote

Reply to comment by Super-Lychee8852 in Toll Fees by Areeves50

Yes, that’s how taxes and public infrastructure works. You don’t pay for the roads you specifically drive on, you pay for the roads in your region. Obviously it’s much more complicated than that, but that’s general principle.

Look, if you can avoid the pike, good for you. But most Mainers can’t. Many of us commute, whether we like it or not. The highway is often the fastest (and in the winter safest) route.

I’m not suggesting raising taxes on you, bub, unless you’re a secret millionaire. I’m suggesting that rich people in this state (even part time) actually pay their share so the rest of us can drive in peace. Fun fact, toll plazas increase rates of vehicle accidents as well.

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Super-Lychee8852 t1_j0t0ycr wrote

Making tourists pay is better. Tolls can be avoided. EZpass greatly reduces cost for the average commuter.

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ascentoffailure t1_j0t26y2 wrote

But not entirely. You are completely missing my point. Highways exist for a reason - because they are the fastest (and in snow safest) roads. It doesn’t matter if locals can get an EZ pass and a discount. I’m saying they shouldn’t have to pay that on top of their taxes. There are better, more egalitarian, and literally safer ways to fund roads, and that is about taxation and public policy.

Since you’re busy downvoting me, I’ll ask why you’re so emphatic that Mainers pay extra money? You do know that most states don’t have tolls, yes? Or is it that your view is so myopic and self-centered that only your experience is valid? Again, you’re luck you don’t have to commute long distances. Many of us do.

There are better ways to fund the roads, and to support locals.

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Super-Lychee8852 t1_j0t40ms wrote

My commute can take me anywhere up and down the coast. One day I can work in Presque Isle and the next day work in Kittery. I drive the pike fairly regularly. If people are concerned about the cost they can go around. The majority of commuters are going through the low cost tolls and with ezpass those tolls are under a dollar.

Most states do have tolls, 38 states do to be exact.

These roads are the snow safest because the tolls paying for those plow crews. 95 north of Augusta isn't as well taken care of

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