Taking a toll: Drivers face another rate increase

Demand at specific times means an update to the cost of driving on certain toll roads along the Atlantic Seaboard.

Select toll road rates are set to increase, beginning June 29, to help maintain reliable and predictable travel times as demand continues to grow, local transportation officials said.

The North Carolina Turnpike Authority announced on Tuesday, June 23, that it will implement toll rate changes for five segments of Interstate 485 Express Lanes during peak travel times.

There is a measure of good news as the state’s turnpike authority also said that it will reduce rates to better balance traffic in lower-demand scenarios.

According to a news release, toll rates will increase by “no more than 25 cents per segment.”

Since opening in February, the I-485 Express Lanes have seen more than 750,000 trips taken, the North Carolina Turnpike Authority said.

The online NC Quick Pass toll rate calculator has been updated to include these changes, allowing drivers to review rates before they travel.

NCTA said it will continue to monitor traffic conditions and make data-driven decisions that support reliable travel and improve this travel corridor.

🚗⚡ Heading into the I‑485 Express Lanes?

With an #NCQuickPass account, enjoy faster trips, seamless toll payments, and savings along the way.

👉 Link in bio#I485 #ExpressLanes #DriveSmart #TravelNC #NCDrivers pic.twitter.com/k5nqYnOZTY

— NC Quick Pass (@NC_QuickPass) June 22, 2026

Toll troubles in North Carolina

In May, the Charlotte City Council voted 6-5 to rescind its support for a project that would add toll lanes to Interstate 77.

The council also approved a resolution requesting that the state Department of Transportation pause the proposed toll project to conduct due diligence and reevaluate it, with consideration of community benefits.

“It’s important to remember that this is a regional project, and other municipalities, in addition to Charlotte, will need to weigh in,” the state DOT said in a statement. LL

Read more news from North Carolina.