I would like to acknowledge The Day for giving front page prominence to the well-founded fears of “some” people that the imposition of tolls here in Connecticut will have a significant impact on tourism. One need only state the proposition to be convinced of its truth. We here in Connecticut can benefit in multiple ways from this insight. 

Consider my case for example. My wife and I have taken annual weekend trips to Maine for many years. Now, aided by the insight of “some” people, I realize that the $5 or $10 in tolls that we spend to go through New Hampshire and into and out of Maine (which hitherto escaped our notice) make the trip totally unaffordable. Why, the cost of tolls almost equals the cost of gas, and is, I now realize, thanks to the insight of “some” people, a significant, albeit microscopic, fraction of what we spend on lodging, meals and souvenir trinkets.

I’m sure “some” people are right and that many tourists who already have to pay tolls to get out of their home states to come here will not come if we add $5 or $10 to the cost of their vacation. Who can be expected to bear that kind of expense? 

John Wirzbicki

Groton