OLDTOWN, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland Public Service Commission is considering a proposed settlement that would triple the toll for most vehicles crossing a private bridge over the Potomac River at Oldtown.

The Cumberland Times-News (http://bit.ly/TDazsQ ) reports that the regulatory agency will hold a public hearing Jan. 14 on the proposed increase.

The toll for most passenger vehicles would rise from 50 cents to $1.50 per crossing. Other vehicles that now pay $1 would also pay $1.50.

Monthly passes would increase from $14 to $45.

The bridge owner had sought a steeper increase, to $2 per car, to pay for repairs to the narrow span between Oldtown and Green Spring, W.Va.

It's the only river crossing for about 15 miles in either direction.

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Information from: Cumberland (Md.) Times-News, http://www.times-news.com/timesnew.html