Tolls lowered to tempt truck drivers

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The Texas Department of Transportation is reducing tolls for trucks on State Highway 130 and State Highway 45.

The goal is to relieve congestion on Interstate 35 during the holidays. The stretch of Interstate Highway 35 from State Highway 71 to US Highway 183 is the most congested roadway in Texas.

"Stay alert, definitely stay alert and take your time," said Damon Turner, Austin resident. "Don’t be in a rush. Your family is going to want you to get there safe and if that means it takes an extra hour or so take the extra hour."

AAA  Texas said as many as 6.9 million Texans will hit the roads through early January.

Any motorist who takes the toll roads will pay the passenger vehicle rate. That's a savings of more than 67 percent for trucks with four axles or more. The promotion goes until Jan. 4.

"I know they’re trying to get home for Christmas and also from point A to point B as quick as they can," said Manuel Castillo, truck driver. "I would recommend that they use the toll road."

Just in the time for the holidays, AAA reports gas prices have dropped 4 cents this week. The average price at the pump in $3.05 per gallon. Gasoline is at its lowest price since last February.

"Gas prices are down which are a good time," said Turner. "I could use them to be a little bit lower, just a little bit."