Toll 49 Segment 3B Opens

SMITH COUNTY � The North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority (NET RMA) opened Segment 3B of Toll 49 Thursday evening at 6:00. Officials say it�s to allow holiday travelers the opportunity to use the entire 26 miles of Toll 49 just in time for the Easter weekend. They note that the toll road now connects to I-20 for the first time; the connection point is northwest of Tyler.

The Texas Transportation Commission approved the transfer of Toll 49 to the NET RMA from TxDOT in its February 28 meeting. With the opening of this segment, the NET RMA becomes the tolling agency responsible for operations, maintenance, and toll collection of Toll 49. As there had not been a toll rate increase since Segment 1 was opened in 2006, the toll rates now go up from 10 cents per mile to 12 cents per mile for passenger cars. All other classes of vehicle rates escalate accordingly as well. These rates are effective as of today. �This is a landmark day for East Texas. Revenues from Toll 49 will remain in East Texas to be used on future projects in the region,� stated Chair of the NET RMA Linda Thomas.