SEATAC, Wash. — Starting today, drivers should expect a toll on the new State Route 509 expressway in SeaTac.
The introduction of tolls on the SR-509 expressway ends several months in which drivers had free access to the road, allowing them to integrate the route into their daily commutes.
Ziare, who lives in SeaTac, noted, “I think they made it for two months, and people started using that in their daily routine. And now, they put the toll there because people are so used to it, they’re going to pay it.”
Some drivers, like Ziare, believe the tolls will lead to increased traffic on alternative routes as people seek to avoid the fees.
WSDOT has stated that the tolls are necessary to ensure the roads are maintained and improved.
Mluleki, a Des Moines resident, acknowledged the need for road maintenance, saying, “Somebody gotta pay taxes, you know. Somebody gotta fix the roads, which they are fixing them, because of the money that we are paying.”
Despite the mixed reactions from drivers, the tolls are expected to contribute to the upkeep and development of Washington’s road infrastructure.
Dwayne, a Mariners fan, expressed hope that the toll money would be used effectively, saying, “Like I said, if WSDOT would do something with toll money, ok.”
As tolls begin on SR 509, drivers will have to adjust their routines and budgets, while WSDOT aims to use the funds to enhance road conditions across the state.
How much will it cost?
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), as of 5 a.m. Monday, September 29, two-axle vehicles using the expressway between Interstate 5 and 24th Avenue South with a valid Good To Go! account and pass will be charged a toll ranging from $1.20 to $2.40, depending on the time of day.
Vehicles with three or more axles will pay higher rates depending on the number of axles.
WSDOT assured travelers that everyone can use the new expressway, but travelers with a Good To Go! account and pass will pay the lowest toll rate. If the vehicle isn’t linked to a Good To Go! account, a toll bill will be mailed at a higher rate – $2 more for each trip.
Where is the toll?
Tolls are collected near the new I-5 on- and off-ramps, and there are no carpool exemptions.
The first mile of the expressway opened at the end of June. Two additional miles are expected to open in 2028, extending SR-509 from where it currently ends at South 188th Street to 24th Avenue South in SeaTac.
WSDOT confirmed that all routes that existed before the expressway opened will continue to be free to use, and only the new portion of SR-509 will be tolled.
What will the toll pay for?
This toll will cover the costs of operating and maintaining the new road, as well as fund the current and future construction work planned as part of the WSDOT Puget Sound Gateway Program.
Toll revenue is required to fund $213.2 million of the Gateway project’s $2.83 billion budget, according to WSDOT.
How to get Good To Go!
Travelers can sign up for a Good To Go! account and get a free sticker pass at GoodToGo509.com while supplies last.
Learn more about Good To Go! accounts here.
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