In a surprising turn of events, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has dismissed the idea of placing tolls along the New Hampshire border. The proposal, which was suggested by Massachusetts Department of Transportation Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt, aimed to generate additional funding for transportation initiatives in the state.

During a keynote speech for WalkMassachusetts on April 10, Tibbits-Nutt mentioned the possibility of building new tolls to charge drivers entering Massachusetts from New Hampshire. She highlighted the need for innovative solutions to address the state's budgetary concerns and improve road safety.

Tibbits-Nutt revealed that a task force had been created to explore various funding options, including tolling, increased charges for transportation network companies (TNCs), package deliveries, and payroll taxes. The focus would be on targeting those who have the financial means to contribute towards transportation improvements.

However, Governor Healey swiftly dismissed the proposal, clarifying that Tibbits-Nutt's comments did not represent the views of the administration. In a statement, Healey expressed her confidence in Tibbits-Nutt's leadership but emphasized that tolls would not be implemented at any border.

Healey reiterated her priorities of making Massachusetts more affordable and fostering collaboration to achieve meaningful progress. The Governor highlighted the recent partnership with the Legislature that resulted in a billion dollars in tax cuts, emphasizing the commitment to working with all stakeholders.

The idea of tolling at the New Hampshire border also drew criticism from State Auditor Diana DiZoglio, who argued that it would create significant congestion and place a burden on local backroads. DiZoglio, a Merrimack Valley resident, stressed that such a move would detrimentally impact both the economy and the communities along the state border.

The Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance also expressed their opposition to the tolling proposal, branding it as "simply reprehensible." They joined DiZoglio in urging the administration to reject this approach.

In response to the criticisms, MassDOT issued a statement clarifying that Tibbits-Nutt's comments were meant to foster crucial discussions about improving the state's transportation system. The task force is still in its early stages, and no final decisions have been made regarding the potential recommendations. MassDOT assured that any proposals would be collaboratively developed, taking into account affordability and competitiveness implications.

As the debate surrounding transportation funding continues, the state of Massachusetts seeks to find sustainable solutions that will address its infrastructure needs effectively while minimizing negative impacts on residents and commuters.