A credit-rating firm says in a report that a lagging economy could force the South Jersey Transportation Authority to raise tolls on the Atlantic City Expressway.
The Press of Atlantic City reports Fitch Ratings says the economic downturn has led to fewer drivers on the southern New Jersey toll road. The report says a toll increase could be the authority's best way to make up for the lost revenue.
It recommends a 50 percent increase in 2019 to help maintain the agency's current financial position.
The report says the average toll of $1.47 for the expressway is reasonable and offers flexibility to raise the toll.
South Jersey Transportation Authority Executive Director Stephen Dougherty wouldn't say whether a toll increase will be necessary in the future.
