New Hampshire DOT Proposes Toll Increase for Highway Plazas. Governor Rejects the Idea

The New Hampshire Department of Transportation (DOT) has proposed raising tolls at three major plazas — Hampton (I-95), Hooksett (I-93), and Bedford (Everett Turnpike). Under the proposal, each of these toll plaza rates would increase by $1. The Hampton toll would rise from $2 to $3; Hooksett and Bedford would go from $1 to $2.

The increase aims to address a $400 million shortfall in the state's Ten-Year Plan for 2027-2036 and fund highway projects, including installing all-electronic tolling to replace toll booths in Hampton.

According to a CBS News Boston report, the state currently has the lowest toll-per-mile rate among states with toll roads. Even with the increase, New Hampshire would remain the 26th-lowest among 32 states.

However, the proposal faces hurdles. Gov. Kelly Ayotte has publicly rejected the idea of a toll increase, stating "No" when asked about the proposal.

Despite the governor's response, the transportation department said it remains in the "public input phase" of the Ten-Year Plan. Public comment on the proposal is due by Monday, Nov. 3. 

In Massachusetts, a 2024 proposal to raise revenue by increasing tolls at the state border was rejected by Gov. Maura Healey.