The administration of Governor Mike Braun has unveiled a proposal to introduce tolls on Interstate 70 across Indiana as part of a $6.5 billion plan to widen the highway to six lanes.
According to a recently released application to the Federal Highway Administration, the state plans to begin charging tolls as early as 2029 to help fund major reconstruction and rehabilitation of I-70, one of Indiana’s most critical transportation corridors.
Proposed Toll Rates and Timeline
The state’s application, dated September 8, 2025, proposes a toll rate of 10 cents per mile for passenger vehicles such as cars and SUVs. This means drivers traveling the full 156 miles of I-70 across Indiana would pay approximately $15.60.
For commercial vehicles, especially semi-trailers, the proposed toll rate is 54 cents per mile, which would amount to an $84.24 charge for driving the full length of the interstate within Indiana.
The highway improvements, including widening and modernization, are expected to take eight to ten years to complete, with tolling beginning in early 2029.
Funding Critical Infrastructure
The Braun administration and some Republican legislators have argued that tolling is the most feasible way to finance these extensive upgrades. The application highlights that without toll revenues, the state cannot meet the current and future transportation needs of Hoosiers, interstate travelers, and the manufacturing and industrial sectors that rely heavily on I-70.
“Reconstructing and rehabilitating I-70 for the current and future needs of both Indiana’s and the nation’s industrial and manufacturing base is critically necessary,” the application states.
Public Reaction and Controversy
The proposal is expected to spark debate among residents and stakeholders. While tolling on other highways in Indiana, like the Indiana Toll Road in the northern part of the state, is already in place, extending tolls to I-70 could face public resistance due to the costs involved for daily commuters and businesses.
Comparable Toll Rates
The proposed toll rates are consistent with those currently charged on the Indiana Toll Road, providing some context for drivers who are already familiar with tolling in the state.
Next Steps
The federal government will review the state’s application as part of the Interstate System Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Pilot Program. Approval would allow Indiana to move forward with the tolling plan and the associated reconstruction projects.
The state’s approach reflects growing challenges nationwide in funding major highway infrastructure projects amid increasing traffic volumes and aging roadways.
Drivers planning future travel along I-70 are advised to stay informed about upcoming developments and potential changes to tolling policies.