But turnpike tolls were last increased in April 1980, and recent attempts to muster the political backing for an increase have failed.

Instead, the tolls were increased to 25 cents to cover the closing of the Northbound toll plaza in the 1980s.

"They're really not complaining the way they did when the tolls were increased and they had to pay an odd figure in change," he said.

The toll for all southbound vehicles was increased to $3 in March 2004.

Moreover, fares and tolls were increased in February, although the base fare, which increased to $2 from $1.50 in 2003, did not change.

The toll was increased for a time to a Penny Ha'penny (one and a half pence), but was eventually dropped in 1919.

The tolls for crossing each of the other two tunnels are significantly higher, and were further increased in 2005 by up to 67% to boost investment returns.

The tolls were last increased on 1 March 2007 after a public enquiry that concluded in 17 October 2006.

Some years later, tolls were increased to 10 cents, and the nickname became the "Dime Bridge."

The toll was increased again in 1998 to 25 cents.