Statement from Sen. Albers Regarding “Paying It Forward” at Georgia Toll Booths.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Jennifer Yarber, Interim Director

Shawna Mercer, Sr. Communications Specialist

Shawna.mercer@senate.ga.gov

404.656.0028

ATLANTA (August 16, 2013) – Sen. John Albers (R –Roswell) has released the following statement regarding the Georgia Department of Transportation’s decision to reinstate the ability of motorists to “Pay It Forward” at Georgia Toll Booths:

“I would like to applaud Commissioner Keith Golden of the Georgia Department of Transportation and the Executive Director of the State Road and Tollway Authority, Christopher Tomlinson, for reinstating a popular goodwill measure at Georgia toll booths today. Georgia is well-known for our southern hospitality and charity, and it isn’t uncommon for Georgians to demonstrate random acts of kindness by “paying it forward” at toll booths statewide – particularly along the Ga. 400 corridor.

“The original decision by the commissioner at the Georgia Department of Transportation to remove the ability for motorists to pay for the car behind them was simply unacceptable. I, along with countless other motorists who travel along Ga. 400 and desire to help others, am glad GDOT worked to resolve this matter immediately. This is a positive example of the branches of government working together and doing what’s right.

“Today not only marks 99 days until the toll is removed forever, but is a great day for motorists traveling along our roadways. I’ve worked for the past five years with state transportation authorities to make due on this promise to Georgia taxpayers and look forward to the day when Ga. 400 is toll free.

“For the duration of this toll, it is important we continue to protect Ga. 400’s image as the ‘hospitality highway’ and allow motorists’ the ability to demonstrate goodwill toward their fellow man.”

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Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the State Institutions and Property Committee.  He represents the 56th Senate District which includes portions of North Fulton and Cherokee counties. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at john.albers@senate.ga.gov.