Southern Indiana officials renew opposition to bridge tolls

Officials in southern Indiana are proposing their state pay Kentucky's unfunded share of construction costs to avoid tolls on two new bridges linking the states over the Ohio River.

The Courier-Journal of Louisville, Ky., reported Monday that toll opponents in Clark County, Ind., believe forcing motorists to pay to cross the bridges would hurt their business.

Town and county officials say they've met with state officials and contacted the office of Gov. Mike Pence to discuss the idea.

But southern Indiana lawmakers say the proposal doesn't have much of a chance.

New Albany Re. Ed Clere says the idea is wishful thinking and could undermine a project that could boost the area's economy.

And Charlestown Sen. Jim Smith says the battle against tolls has already been lost.