Toll exemption for buses crossing two WA bridges will end this fall

Effective October 1, public and private bus services in Washington will pay tolls on the State Route 520 floating bridge and Tacoma Narrows Bridge, marking a significant policy shift. This change follows legislative efforts to address a billion-dollar shortfall in the state's transportation budget. The new revenue package, which includes a 6-cent increase in the gas tax, is expected to generate $3. 2 billion over six years, with the toll repeal contributing around $1 million annually. Justin Leighton of the Washington State Transit Association criticized the decision, stating it unfairly impacts public transit users.

King County Metro and Pierce Transit will now incur costs for bridge crossings, with Pierce Transit estimating approximately $61,380 in annual tolls. The changes will also apply when tolling begins on the Interstate 5 bridge in 2027. School buses will remain exempt from the new tolls, preserving their previous status. The toll structure will vary based on vehicle type and crossing time, with King County Metro currently evaluating the financial implications.