Illinois Tollway Board considers historic passenger toll increase

The Illinois Tollway Board is preparing to vote on the largest passenger toll increase in the state's history. The proposal would raise passenger tolls by approximately 45 cents, or 57%, and commercial tolls by 30%. If approved, the new rates would take effect on January 1, with automatic inflation-linked increases scheduled every two years starting in 2029.

Public feedback has been largely negative, with 83% of nearly 9,000 respondents opposing the hike. The Illinois Policy Institute estimates that a typical commuter using two tolls each workday could face an additional $225 in costs during the first year.

Critics point to the agency's existing revenue, noting that the Illinois Tollway collected more than $1.75 billion in 2025 while requiring only $442 million to cover operations and expenses. The Illinois Policy Institute suggests the agency has accumulated $22 billion in excess funds since 1973.