MACKINAC ISLAND — The Mackinac Bridge Authority has delayed its next planned toll increase for at least two more years.
The decision was made last week during a meeting of the authority’s board on Mackinac Island. It follows improved financial projections and maintenance aimed at extending the life of the 56-year-old bridge connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas.
Even with delaying the planned increase, financial projections show the bridge should have sufficient funding. Officials will reassess the toll rate increase schedule again in 2016.
In 2013, the Mackinac Bridge Authority voted to keep 2014 toll rates at the 2012 level, which includes a per-trip toll of $4 for passenger vehicles. The decision also rolled back commuter costs to 2012 rates. Toll increases were implemented between 2008 and 2013.
