toll bridge seattle

“`html

Toll Bridges in Seattle: Navigating Costs and Commutes

Seattle relies heavily on toll bridges to manage traffic flow and fund infrastructure improvements. Two key bridges with tolls are the State Route 520 floating bridge and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, located south of Seattle, impacting daily commutes and regional travel. Understanding the tolling systems and associated costs is crucial for anyone navigating these routes.

SR 520 Bridge: The Evergreen Point Floating Bridge

The State Route 520 bridge, officially the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge, is a major east-west corridor connecting Seattle to the Eastside communities. As a replacement for an older bridge, the current structure incorporates tolls to help repay the construction costs. The toll rates vary depending on the time of day, with peak hours incurring higher charges. Good To Go! passes offer the lowest toll rates and allow for automatic deductions, eliminating the need for manual payment.

SR 520 Toll Rates and Payment Options

Toll rates fluctuate based on the time of day and day of the week. Using a Good To Go! pass is the most cost-effective method, typically offering the lowest rates. Pay By Mail is also an option, but it incurs a higher toll rate due to administrative fees. Drivers without a Good To Go! pass will receive a bill in the mail based on their license plate.

Tacoma Narrows Bridge: South of Seattle

Located south of Seattle, the Tacoma Narrows Bridge is another significant toll bridge in Washington State. Unlike the SR 520 bridge, the Tacoma Narrows Bridge has a fixed toll rate, though it still offers discounts for Good To Go! pass holders. This bridge is essential for connecting the Olympic Peninsula to the Seattle metropolitan area.

Tacoma Narrows Bridge Toll Rates and Payment

Similar to the SR 520 bridge, the Tacoma Narrows Bridge offers lower toll rates for drivers using Good To Go! passes. Pay By Mail is available, but comes with higher costs. Drivers should check current toll rates on the Wikipedia page about Tacoma Narrows Bridge for the most up-to-date information.

Alternatives to Toll Bridges

While the SR 520 and Tacoma Narrows Bridges offer the most direct routes, alternative options exist, though they may involve longer travel times. Taking I-90 across Lake Washington avoids the SR 520 toll. For the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, driving around the Puget Sound adds significant time to the trip but avoids tolls altogether. Consider traffic conditions and time constraints when deciding which route to take.

FAQs About Seattle Toll Bridges

Why are there tolls on the SR 520 and Tacoma Narrows Bridges?

Tolls are used to repay the costs of constructing and maintaining these bridges.

How can I pay for tolls on the SR 520 and Tacoma Narrows Bridges?

You can pay with a Good To Go! pass, which offers the lowest rates, or through Pay By Mail, which incurs a higher rate.

What happens if I drive through the toll without paying?

You will receive a bill in the mail, which includes the toll amount plus an administrative fee.

Is there a way to avoid tolls altogether?

Yes, alternative routes exist, such as taking I-90 across Lake Washington instead of SR 520, or driving around the Puget Sound instead of using the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. However, these routes may add significant travel time.

How do I get a Good To Go! pass?

You can purchase a Good To Go! pass online, by phone, or at various retail locations.

Summary

Navigating Seattle’s toll bridges requires understanding the tolling systems and associated costs. The SR 520 and Tacoma Narrows Bridges use tolls to fund infrastructure improvements. Using a Good To Go! pass is the most cost-effective payment method. Understanding your options and planning your route accordingly can save both time and money.

“`