The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority announced this past week that the public comment period has opened regarding proposed toll rate increases along the Dulles Toll Road to help pay construction costs for the Metro’s Silver Line project as well as road operations.

Under proposal, the combined main plaza and ramp tolls would double from the existing rate to $2.25 for 2-axle vehicles over the next three years based on the following schedule:

• $2.75 in 2013
• $3.50 in 2014
• $4.50 in 2015

Informational about the proposed toll increases, titled "On-Line Open House," can be found at www.mwaa.com/tollroad. Public comments can be submitted online or through the mail through Sept. 16, click here for address, or in person at one of the hearings, which will be conducted in an open house format at the locations, dates and times:

• Thursday, Sept. 6, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  Stone Bridge High School Cafeteria
  43100 Hay Road, Ashburn, VA 20147
• Wednesday, September 12, 2012 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  South Lakes High School Cafeteria
  11400 South Lakes Drive, Reston, VA 20191
• Thursday, September 13, 2012 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  Spring Hill Elementary School
  8201 Lewinsville Road, McLean, VA 22102

The hearings also will include exhibits about the rail project, its cost and financing plan, potential improvements that may be made to the road, and the cost of operating the road. Representatives from MWAA will be present.

MWAA has been tasked with overseeing the construction of Metrorail through the Dulles Corridor. As part of this program, Virginia transferred the operation of the Dulles Toll Road to the authority in 2008 under a 50-year permit to pay for rail construction and road operation and maintenance.

For more information about the Dulles Rail Project and the Dulles Toll Road, visit www.mwaa.com.