The state Department of Transportation says it is negotiating fees for contracts on financial and planning studies for the tolling of Interstate 95.

Roberto Canales, coordinator of Strategic Initiatives for the department, told The Spin in an interview today tolling the highway from the Virginia to the South Carolina lines seems the best option for funding major highway improvements. “Could I tell you that two to three years down the road? I could not tell you.”

Canales said DOT is studying the practicability of putting tool booths on the road. He said the study would not be completed until about 18 to 24 months.

The department will hold meetings with the public and government officials before starting, Canales said.

The Spin first reported Tuesday night Roanoke Rapids Mayor D.N. Beale stating DOT officials told him tolling the highway was a reality, although few details were forthcoming.

The state Turnpike Authority told The Spin this morning no proposals on the matter have been brought to the agency.