Forum Jan. 14 on possible end to 73 tolls at Newport Coast Drive

Residents are invited to attend a forum Jan. 14 to hear about the challenges and opportunities surrounding the elimination of tolls on the 73 Toll Road at Newport Coast Drive.

Ridding that juncture of tolls is considered a means of alleviating gridlock and improving traffic flow through Corona del Mar. In July, the Newport Beach City Council briefly discussed whether the elimination of tolls between Newport Coast Drive and Bonita Canyon Road might encourage more motorists to use that stretch rather than Corona del Mar streets. Such a decision, however, is not within the council’s control.

Michael Kraman, CEO of the Transportation Corridor Agencies, and former Newport Beach Mayor Rush Hill, a member of the board of directors of the San Joaquin Hills Transportation Corridor Agency, will speak and take questions during the 30-minute program.

A reception will be held at 5:30 p.m., with the forum following at 6 p.m. The free event, organized by Speak Up Newport, will be held at the Newport Beach Civic Center’s community meeting room, 100 Civic Center Drive. For more information, call (949) 224-2266 or go to speakupnewport.org.

--Nicole Knight Shine