Tolls increase across the Bay Area

Come Monday morning, hundreds of thousands of commuters around the state will have to pay a little extra to get to work.

That's because the cost to travel on most of the major toll roads just went up.

In the Bay Area, that means about a 25-cent increase each way on the Suncoast Parkway, the Veterans Expressway, the Pinellas Bayway system, the Sunshine Skyway system and the Polk Parkway.

"I don't think it's fair but you don't have much choice. Sometimes it's the easiest way to go," said Chris Crown of Tampa.

The Florida Department of Transportation says the extra money will pay for adding lanes to congested highways, converting toll booths to an all-electronic system, improving interchanges and enhancing safety.

Despite the projected upgrades, many drivers are crying foul.

"It's another added expense, it makes it a little bit tougher. My wife takes this road, the Veterans Expressway, everyday to work and now it's gonna add an additional cost," said Carlos Quinones of Tampa.

"Gas is expensive, kids are expensive I don't need to spend another quarter on the toll booth," said Megan Meister of Tampa.

That said, one driver doesn't think the extra quarter is all that bad.

"If it's going up a quarter it's really not affecting anyone's life. Even though they may not like paying it, it's not changing anyone's lifestyle," said Marc Damico of Tampa.

The rate increase will affect those who pay by cash and some with a SunPass.

Megan Meister says she takes the Veterans every day. She says even the smallest increase can have an impact.

"A quarter? It adds up pretty quickly, you quickly realize how much you're spending going back and forth," said Meister. "Everything is going up except for salary so, not too happy about that."

The new pricing is effective Sunday June 24 at 6 a.m.