Linsky Proposes End to MassPike Tolls

Sticker-shocked lawmakers enraged about hefty Mass Pike toll hikes are pushing for a 6-cent gas tax increase in an effort to prevent the new charges.

Rep. David Linsky (D-Natick) plans on filing a bill today that would call for dropping all Pike tolls, including those in Weston and Allston, in exchange for raising the gas tax by 6 cents. Rep. Steve Walsh (D-Lynn) is also filing legislation that would freeze the current rates until Gov. Deval Patrick unveils a comprehensive transportation plan.

“This proposal would cost the average Massachusetts motorist approximately 85 or 90 cents per week, and save commuters on the Massachusetts Turnpike and those who commute from the North Shore nearly $2,000 per year,” Linsky stated in an e-mail to colleagues.