Interstate 95 was a big discussion topic during this morning’s city council meeting with members of its legislative delegation.

Roanoke Rapids City Manager Paul Sabiston told the legislators officials have had some meetings and talked with elected officials on the issue. “There’s a huge number of limited funds available right now.”

He said the areas the interstate dissects are trying to find out more information. “The majority of counties don’t have a good vision of how it will impact them. I think the adverse consequences will be for business.”

Sabiston said in meetings with state officials, the Department of Transportation says it is still studying the matter. “I’m pretty sure tolling is on top of the list.”

Representative Angela Bryant asked about a timeframe when legislators should begin discussing the matter.

Sabiston suggested the term following the January session.

Bryant also asked who favors tolling.

Said Sabiston: “I think your governor supports it.”

Senator Ed Jones said if tolling comes, the state has to make sure the money stays in the area. He said the state needs to study the affect tolling would have on roads like Highway 301.

The city maintains, Sabiston said, “If they’re going to toll, they need to toll all the interstates.”

Even if toll booths are placed at the Virginia and South Carolina borders, Sabiston said, it will still have a devastating affect on the local economy.

Bryant said the legislative delegation in all the I-95 counties need to get together. “We need to make a coalition.”
Representative John May, who serves on the transportation committee, said it appears the state is leaning toward tolling. “Interstate 95 has a tremendous amount of traffic. Every week or so there is a bad accident.”