Chamber of Commerce opposes tolls

NEWPORT, R.I. (WPRI) - The Newport County Chamber of Commerce has voted to oppose any and all tolls on local bridges.

In a news release, the Chamber of Commerce announced its Board of Directors unanimously voted to oppose any tolls or toll increases on the Newport Pell Bridge and the Sakonnet River Bridge. The organization claims tolls would be unfair to users of the bridges, especially to residents and businesses on Aquidneck Island.

Additionally, the Chamber claims any tolls on either bridge would lead to higher prices on goods on Aquidneck Island and along the East Bay. The organization also fears tolls could decrease the area's competitiveness ahead of the anticipated 2015 Base Realignment and Closure.