Crossing the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is a little more expensive as of today.
The change from $3.00 to $3.40 for two-axle vehicles with a toll tag took effect at 3:45 a.m. November 2.
For those paying with cash or a credit card, they will see their toll leap from $5.00 to $6.00.
Carlton Dufrechou, General Manager of the Greater New Orleans Expressway Commission, says, "Whenever you use the bridge, even if it's once or twice a month, please get a toll tag. It'll save you 40% right off the bat and get you through the toll plaza much quicker,"
He says when the toll hike was first being considered, Dufrechou says it was believed it would be almost double the increase finally decided on, but inflation was not as high as expected. He says the increase is, "Actually under inflation, the cumulative inflation rate, so we're really pleased with that."
The increase will help to offset the expenses of maintaining the two 24-mile long bridges that have undergone upgrades over the past two years to having six shoulder pull offs on each bridge and improved, higher bridge railings on the southbound bridge.
