San Diego – Nora Vargas, President of SANDAG, and Carolina Chávez, Councilwoman of Chula Vista, announced their collaborative efforts to remove the current toll on State Route 125. Vargas, who also chairs the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, emphasized that “State Route 125,” currently operating as a toll road, “represents a clear inequality in our transportation system.”
Vargas highlighted that “unlike other regions, residents in the southern part of the county do not have a free alternative, making the transportation system unfair and burdensome for residents.” In a press report released on Monday, May 27, she stated, “This is why we are taking steps today to accelerate the process and provide a fair and accessible transportation option for all residents of the southern county.”
Councilwoman Carolina Chávez pointed out that “today, the Board of Directors voted to move forward with a necessary analysis to end the tolls on SR-125.” She added, “This is a step to end the inequality of the only toll road in the county that affects Chula Vista and the rest of South Bay.”
These statements followed the most recent Chula Vista City Council meeting, where a proposal to achieve this goal by 2027 was presented. Chávez stressed the importance of prioritizing the region’s connection to underserved communities and the border. “After 13 years, I am grateful to be part of advancing this critical need for our region,” she said.
The press release also mentioned that the approved budget amendment directs staff to return with a comprehensive plan, including a firm timeline for toll elimination, an initial project phase for preliminary work, and an equity analysis to ensure fairness and inclusion.
View of State Route 125.Photo credit: CBS 8, San Diego