Toll increase funding new Hood River-White Salmon Bridge

Tolls on the existing Hood River Bridge increased on Sept. 1 to help fund the replacement bridge.

Rates rose for all bridge users. The toll for BreezeBy users with two-axle vehicles rose to $1.75 per crossing, while those without BreezeBy must now pay $3.50. Rates for other types of vehicles are available on the Port of Hood River website.

The decision by the Port of Hood River Board of Commissioners to raise tolls came after the port received feedback from more than 1,250 community members on two different tolling options. Based on the recommendation from the BiState Working Group and Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority, the board approved the option that 86% of community members said they preferred.

The bridge authority now oversees the bridge replacement project, and needs toll revenue to build up cash reserves to take out a federal construction loan. 100% of the new toll revenue will go toward a separate fund to be used solely for the replacement bridge.

Read more at the Columbia Gorge News.