Ohio Turnpike increases toll rates

With the beginning of the new year, the cost of traveling on the Ohio Turnpike has increased.

As of Monday, January 1, 2024, the toll rate for E-ZPass customers is now $0.065 per mile compared to the $0.061 from 2023.

The toll rate increased to $0.204 per mile, up from $0.189 per mile for E-ZPass customers driving commercial vehicles like semi-trucks.

Ohio E-ZPass customers with passenger vehicles will continue to save an average of 33% on toll rates compared to cash/credit card paying customers.

The toll rate adjustment was made to meet operating, debt, service, and capital costs, according to the commission, which says they rely primarily on toll revenue to maintain and operate the Ohio Turnpike.

The toll rate adjustment will help maintain the Ohio Turnpike's infrastructure, including bridge, roadway, and other projects, according to the commission.

The Federal Highway Administration says that the cost of highway design, construction, and maintenance is at an all-time high and that inflation in the roadway construction sector is more extreme compared to the general economy.

These costs include the price of materials, crude oil, and fuel, which have increased significantly since December 2020.