PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A group of Rhode Island lawmakers is trying to stop a plan that would allow tolls on the Sakonnet River Bridge.
State Rep. John Edwards together with Sens. Walter Felag Jr. and Louis DiPalma have introduced legislation to prevent the state Department of Transportation from turning the bridge over to the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority.
Lawmakers last year approved a plan to turn the bridge over to the authority, which could place a toll to pay to maintain it. Authorities have said tolls could start in June.
Many residents and businesses say tolls will be too expensive and could cause people to think twice before visiting Aquidneck Island.
Edwards says he hopes the bills send a message that the issue is not dead and must be revisited.
