Show All Answers

1. Why is the Dominion Boulevard Veterans Bridge tolled?

The roadway has been developed as a toll road due to a lack of transportation funding from traditional state and federal sources. The construction, operation, and maintenance of the facility is wholly funded by the tolls collected.

2. What is the toll rate?

See the multi-year toll schedule. Toll rates will increase on July 1 each year.

3. Are cash tolls accepted?

No cash tolls will be collected. This is an "open road" tolling facility, meaning there will be no stopping at toll booths. Everything will be electronic. Motorists will have the option to pay via E-ZPass transponder or by mailed invoices. Sensors are on an over-head structure to read transponders or license plate numbers.

4. Is there a commuter/local, veterans, student or any other discounted rate?

For the lowest rate possible, motorists just need to have an active E-ZPass account with the transponder mounted on the windshield, license plate properly listed and funds in the account. There are no discounts for commuter/local, veterans or students. The base toll rate has been set at the lowest level that still supports the operations, maintenance and debt repayment for Dominion Boulevard.  

5. Where is the toll gantry located?

The toll collection equipment has been installed on overhead gantries located just north of the new bridge over the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River. Only drivers crossing the Veterans Bridge will pay a toll. 

6. What is the speed limit through the toll gantry?

The speed limit does not change as you go underneath the toll gantry. It remains at 55 miles per hour.

7. Why wasn't the toll gantry placed near the North Carolina state line?

The traffic count on U.S. Route 17 near the North Carolina line is roughly 12,000 vehicles per day. In contrast, the volume of traffic on Dominion Boulevard between Cedar Road and Great Bridge Boulevard is roughly 33,000 vehicles per day. The lower traffic volume at the state line would not generate sufficient revenue to support project financing. 

8. Will I be tolled in both directions?

Yes, vehicles will be tolled for both northbound and southbound trips. 

9. When will the tolls come off the Dominion Boulevard Veterans Bridge?

The debt is anticipated to be paid off in 2051. At that point, the City Council can consider removing the tolls. 

10. Is there a private partner that will receive a portion of the tolls?

No. The improvements to Dominion Boulevard were financed by the City of Chesapeake and the project is owned and operated by the City as part of the Chesapeake Transportation System. 100% of the tolls collected on Dominion Boulevard and the Chesapeake Expressway are used to operate and maintain those facilities and to repay the debt issued to finance the projects. Unlike Public-Private Transportation Act (PPTA) projects, there is no private developer/operator that is entitled to a portion of the toll revenue.