EDITORIAL: I-69 toll bridge probable over Ohio River, but should be a last resort

Indeed, Indiana State Sen. Vaneta Becker, R-Evansville said she would like to see a completed toll road study, which INDOT is working on, before reaching a decision on using a toll to pay for the Evansville-Henderson I-69 bridge over the Ohio River.

Becker said, "I think a toll would be a last-resort option. But it's better than no bridge."

Becker is absolutely right about the possible option of tolls to build the bridge over the Ohio, as a last resort. However, if the Tri-State area wants an I-69 bridge, a toll bridge may ultimately prove a necessity. Area residents may ultimately find themselves deciding difficult options, that would include a toll bridge.

This discussion comes at a time when Indiana Gov. Mike Pence is talking about a plan to add $1 billion to the Department of Transportation budget. Even so, while Indiana has a plate full of highway department needs, eventually Hoosiers will be talking at length about financing a major bridge that sends motorist north and south via Interstate 69, a prospect that could include a toll road.