Every day, I drive on the I-77 stretch and face the harsh realities of the toll lane contract, a deal that impacts thousands in North Carolina. This agreement has resulted in predatory fines and unforeseen charges, as I've unfortunately experienced firsthand when the contracted company opened multiple accounts in my name without my consent, leading to numerous fees and penalties.

The I-77 toll lanes contract is a 50-year commitment that many of us believe should be revisited for the sake of North Carolina's residents. It checks every box of what the courts would term an unconscionable contract—a deal so one-sided that no reasonable person would sign it and so oppressive that no sincere party would offer it. The terms are structured to trap and exploit the weaker party, i.e., the everyday North Carolina driver.

The agreement allows the toll lane operator to charge exorbitant tolls and fines, restricts improvements on nearby roads that would have alleviated traffic, and prevents transparency in toll rate calculations. These tolls can soar to exorbitant amounts, making daily commutes unnecessarily expensive and stressful for anyone who relies on this major corridor for their daily commute.

Moreover, this contract stifles the state's ability to address future traffic needs effectively over the next half-century. It restricts competition and innovative transportation solutions that could significantly improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. By keeping this contract unchanged, we're potentially fostering a legacy of financial burden and frustration for future generations of drivers.

Our call to action is straightforward and vital: we need our state representatives to re-examine and renegotiate the I-77 toll lanes agreement. Key clauses need alteration to more fairly balance the rights and protections of North Carolina's residents, particularly the commuters whose lives and finances are directly affected. Transparency in toll charges, an opportunity for public input, and reasonable caps on toll rates are essential improvements.

We ask our elected leaders to stand with us, the residents of North Carolina who endure the daily inconvenience and financial strain of this ill-conceived contract. By signing this petition, you are supporting the demand for fair re-negotiations that put resident interests first, ensuring a just and reasonable commuting experience for all users of I-77. Join us in this vital cause to improve North Carolina's transportation future by signing the petition.