- New toll rates begin January 1, 2027.
- Passenger vehicle tolls will increase by approximately 45 cents per toll, or about 57%.
- Commercial vehicle tolls will increase by 30%.
- The plan is part of a $26.5 billion, 15-year capital program.
- Beginning in 2029, toll rates are set to be adjusted every two years based on inflation.
Illinois drivers are about to pay more to use the state’s tollways after the Illinois Tollway Board unanimously approved a major toll increase Wednesday, according to Fox 32 Chicago.
The new rates will take effect January 1, 2027, marking the first increase for passenger vehicles in nearly 15 years. Drivers will pay approximately 45 cents more at each toll, representing about a 57% increase for passenger vehicles. Commercial vehicles will see a 30% increase.
The increase is part of the Tollway’s massive $26.5 billion Driving Connections capital program, a 15-year plan focused on maintaining and improving the tollway system, expanding infrastructure and addressing congestion.
Tollway officials say the additional revenue will help support the agency’s growing construction and transportation projects. The higher rates are expected to generate roughly $1 billion in additional annual revenue.
The changes won’t stop after 2027. Under the approved plan, toll rates will be adjusted for inflation every two years beginning in 2029, meaning drivers could see additional increases over time.
The proposal had faced significant public opposition before Wednesday’s vote. Illinois Policy Institute reported that thousands of public comments submitted during the comment period opposed the increase.
For commuters who use Illinois toll roads regularly, the increase could add up quickly. A driver traveling through multiple tolls each day could see hundreds of dollars added to their annual commuting costs.
With the board’s approval, Illinois drivers now have less than five months before the new rates take effect. The increase will impact passenger vehicles, commercial drivers and businesses that rely on the state’s tollway system.
