The Lexington Dispatch weighs in on the crazy idea of replacing the Interstate 85 bridge over the Yadkin River with a toll bridge.
It’s a heavily traveled bridge for local residents, who wouldn’t take too well to slowing down to pay a toll. But don’t worry, transportation officials are thinking ahead:
While some accommodations could be made for regular bridge users, some of these options seem rather Big Brotherish. Cameras could take photos of license plates or transponders could record trips through the toll booths, with motorists then receiving bills. With many Americans already concerned about a loss of privacy, a government sensor placed in a vehicle would be one more intrusion into private life.
Forget the loss of privacy, which is indeed a concern. Think about the expense of installing the cameras, identfying the motorists and sending out the bill. And what exactly would happen if the customers don’t pay the bill? Send a DOT cop out to collect?
Why is building roads so difficult in this state? I know the answer, but I thought I’d ask anyway.
