The state Department of Transportation says the tolling of Interstate 95 is not inevitable and its bid for tolling authority from the federal government could be shot down.

North Carolina is vying for one tolling slot left and is currently competing with Rhode Island and Arizona, said Kristine O'Conner, a department spokesperson, one of several state officials who were at today's public hearing.

“The public involvement is a crucial part of this,” O'Connor said.

O'Connor said the state has looked at other funding options such as federal earmarks and sales taxes but those could not raise enough funds quickly enough to get the badly needed repairs and improvements to the highway in as timely manner as tolling would. Otherwise, she said, “We might not see the improvements in our lifetime.”

The state has looked at the issue of local travel on the highway and one option it is considering is free passes for trips under 20 miles. Trips of more than 20 miles would still be subject to tolls, O'Connor said.

Gus Tulloss, a board member who represents this district, also said tolling is not a done deal. “We haven't got the approval for tolling authority. We just don't have the approval. Two other states are also asking for authority.”

O'Connor said the state is expected to hear from the federal government in May. “It could go (to one of the other states). It's up for grabs.”