New pay method for road tolls
The new concession contracts for the country’s highways, both existing ones and those under construction, will introduce a number of changes that are likely to alter the perception drivers have of road tolls. The system of fixed prices that has applied to date, with charges ranging from -2 to -3, will change to one in which the charge is calculated on the basis of the distance traveled, in kilometers. In addition, many toll stations will be abolished, e.g. at Schimatari and Tragana, while others will be relocated and new ones built. The new toll stations will be erected not only on roads under construction but also on existing ones, whose operation will be conceded to private companies. Given that the proceeds from the tolls collected are used to fund the construction of new highways, it is estimated that toll charges will rise steadily over the course of the next 30 years, which is generally the duration of the concession contracts. The new toll calculation will be «pay by the kilometer,» with charges ranging from -0.025 to -0.045 per km, which translates into -2.5 to -4.5 per 100 km. Plans have been drawn up for some stations to be redeveloped and relocated so that the distance between them is between 50 and 60 km. Depending on the contract, concessionaires may opt to build side stations (like those on the Attiki Odos) or «open» tolls, like the collection system currently operating on the Athens – Thessaloniki national road. Under the side tolls system, drivers will be given a receipt upon entering the highway and pay later when exiting on the basis of the distance traveled.
