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Bridge authorities consider ending free tolls for carpoolers. (http://www.ibabuzz.com/transportation/) Apparently the success of carpools (46% of weekday 7-8 a.m. traffic across the Bay Bridge is carpools) is giving the authorities ideas to milk this cash cow. Carpools with 3 or more occupants get to cross the bridges for free during rush hour to relieve congestion. The bridge authorities want to end the free use, and increase their revenues.

I've never driven during rush hour but I only imagine it would get worse if you eliminated the free carpool lane. It's quite annoying given how many people I see not giving exact change. I keep a stash of dollar bills in my glove compartment for this exact reason.

An update on the news. (http://www.contracostatimes.com/ci_11338606?nclick_check=1) Unfortunately, this plan is still alive. We should be doing all we can to encourage carpooling, not discourage it.