Tollway leaders assert rate hikes tucked into transit legislation are their call

Toll hikes passed by the General Assembly in October will need to go through the Illinois tollway board, agency officials said Thursday.

The controversial legislation intended to avert a transit funding collapse also would raise tolls by 45 cents on cars and 30% on trucks starting in 2027, and generate about $1 billion a year for the tollway’s latest capital program.

In addition, the bill would impose toll increases tied to the Consumer Price Index every two years, effective in 2029.

“The next capital program and any changes to toll rates will be reviewed and subject to approval by the tollway board, and will include information for the public,” Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse said at a board meeting.

“Throughout this process, we’ll continue working closely with our partners and cu