Bay of Plenty MP Tony Ryall says using a toll to fast track the Tauranga Eastern Link project is in the best interests of the region's economy.
Transport Minister Steven Joyce announced in Tauranga on Thursday that a toll of $2 for cars and $5 for trucks will be implemented to bring the construction of the Te Puke bypass forward seven years.

Bay of Plenty MP Tony Ryall is in full support of tolling the Tauranga Eastern Link project.

This means construction on the $455 million Tauranga Eastern Link can begin in 2011 as opposed to in 2018 with no toll.
"The link will create a 24km, four-lane highway from Te Maunga in Tauranga to the existing junction of State Highways 2 and 33 near Paengaroa," says Bay of Plenty MP Tony Ryall.
"It will contribute significantly to the Bay of Plenty's economic and social well-being by reducing travel times for commercial vehicles accessing the Port of Tauranga and beyond.
"As well as shortening the journey for motorists and reducing transport costs for business, greater efficiencies and access to the Port of Tauranga will help increase the volume of exports and in turn the growth of the region.
"The link will also improve safety for residents along the current route of State Highway 2 and open up access to new developments planned for Papamoa.
"Extensive community consultation on tolling to bring forward construction resulted in significant community support for the idea.
"Ninety-two per cent of respondents said they conditionally or unconditionally supported advancing the project through tolling during the 2009 public consultation.
"Tolls are proposed to be no more than $2 per trip for cars and motorcycles and no more than $5 for heavy vehicles.
"It is estimated that all borrowing will be repaid within a toll operating period of 35 years, after which tolls will be removed.
"The existing State Highway 2 route through Te Puke will remain as a free alternative route once the Tauranga Eastern Link is completed."