Harrisburg – State Senator Lisa Baker (R-20) says she is “deeply concerned about the significant economic consequences” that would result from converting Interstate 80 into a toll road.

In a letter to J. Richard Capka, Administrator of the federal Highway Administration district that includes Pennsylvania, Baker and Senators Mary Jo White and John Gordner, contend the application submitted by the state contains some misrepresentations.  Among them, a claim that “a number of hearings” were held last spring.  “This is not true”, claims the senators.

The main concern, says Baker, is the impact the tolls would have on local residents and businesses.

One example is Weiss Markets, which claims its operating costs in Pennsylvania would double if the tolls were imposed.

Gov. Ed Rendell, a Democrat, wants the tolls as part of a sweeping long-range transportation and infrastructure plan.