Tolling and pricing approaches have many positive attributes, particularly when used in conjunction with congestion pricing. This section provides a description of these advantages and evaluates how they apply to tolling, cordon pricing, and VMT taxes/ comprehensive road pricing. It should be noted, however, that targeted tolling and pricing are most appropriate as tools that states, regions, or localities use to raise the non-federal share of surface transportation investment. The analysis of those options therefore is for use in that context. Comprehensive pricing is evaluated as an option for the federal level in the form of a fixed VMT charge to supplement or replace current federal motor fuel taxes (although states, localities, and regions could also use this tool if they choose).

The magnitude of funding will be driven by several considerations, including the extent of tolling and pricing, types of applications, and the toll rates that are set.