Tucked away in Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s budget are whopping increases for tolls on the Rickenbacker Causeway for both visitors and residents alike, part of the plan to address a $400 million Miami-Dade County budget shortfall.
The increase for the residential plan would raise the annual rate from $24 to $72, tripling the cost to Key Biscayne residents. Commuters – folks who come to work jobs on the island — would see their fees double from $60 to $120 annually. The regular two-axle toll for visitors would rise $1.00 to $3.25.
In addition to the revenue shortfall, blamed on a loss of COVID-19 funding and additional new independent departments mandated by voters, the increase will be used to offset costs for replacing the Bear Cut Bridge, said Commissioner Raquel Regalado. Toll increases are also being proposed for the Venetian Causeway…