The present value of net cash flows associated with a proposed tollway is often a major criterion in the choice between competing development proposals. The appeal of choosing a structure with the "most value" for tax payers remains a primary objective. Unfortunately, there is no general agreement in what constitutes "most value."
Many commentators believe that those tollways financed through traditional public financing are always cheaper and of more value than those financed with private equity. Others argue that a present value comparison gives an informed choice, and that fostering competitive bidding produces the greatest value for the public.