Texas toll roads have been facing mounting opposition, especially recently. Critics of #toll roads argue that there should be an equal and free access to public services such as transportation. Despite such criticism, toll roads have continued to gain popularity and have increased in numbers. In fact, you’ll likely see an increase in the number of toll roads in Texas. Many people are now resolving to use toll roads upon realizing that most freeways are congested and have heavy traffic jams.

There is no reason to ban toll roads in Texas urban areas. In fact, I am of the idea that toll roads should receive increased funding for a number of reasons.

To start with, tolling is a great way of funding and financing the roads which are the channels that move the Texas economy by getting drivers where they need to be. For the roads to be maintained and kept in proper condition, finances are required. Maintaining the roads in Texas costs $17,528 per lane per mile. Tolling is thus a cost-effective way to address the transportation hitches in Texas.

Toll roads also draw the public into paying direct user charges. The charges and resources obtained from toll payments spearhead the development of more road projects. Something that would not be possible under conventional funding.

Another reason as to why I will remain a great advocate of toll roads is because they save a considerable amount of time as compared to other routes. Toll roads are usually characterized with being quicker and a smoother ride and you will reach your destination on time as opposed to other roads. Other routes are usually characterized by heavy traffic jams that slow down drivers. This is not the case for toll roads. 

Critics of toll roads in Texas are disputing the time saving element saying that the long queues experienced at toll booths are time wasting. However, we have TXTag which lets you travel through a toll gate without stopping. The toll gate will scan your tag and allow you to move swiftly without making unnecessary stoppages. In my opinion, tolling has never meant stop. It means go, go, go! Texas is a fast moving economy and toll roads are part of the engine propelling the economy.

Toll roads also save on wear and tear costs for your vehicle. No potholes, no uneven road surfaces, just quality and smooth roads. Toll roads users in Texas spend less money maintaining their vehicles. They do not experience wear and tear costs like other road users. I urge all the naysayers to start looking at this issue from my point of view. Let us all embrace toll roads and not ban toll roads.