SH 249 Montgomery Co. Tolls Increase Jan 1

**Tolls Rising on SH 249 Extension in Montgomery County Starting January 1**

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX – Drivers on the SH 249 extension in Montgomery County are advised to prepare for increased toll rates effective January 1, 2025. The Montgomery County Toll Road Authority (MCTRA) board officially approved these adjustments during their meeting on December 6, 2024, a standard procedure built into the project’s financial agreements.

The rate hike will specifically impact the tolled segments of SH 249 north of FM 1774 near Pinehurst, extending to FM 1488 in Magnolia, and also the stretch from FM 1488 up to FM 1774 near Todd Mission. Essentially, motorists utilizing the newer, northernmost sections of the SH 249 extension within Montgomery County will see changes to their fees.

For those using a valid transponder system such as an HCTRA EZ TAG, TxTAG, TollTag, or similar compatible devices for a two-axle vehicle, toll rates will increase by 2.5%. However, drivers opting to pay by cash, mail, or using any non-transponder method will experience a more significant 5% jump in rates. This disparity clearly incentivizes drivers to acquire and use a compatible electronic toll tag.

These annual rate adjustments are not arbitrary; they are a contractual obligation embedded within the bond covenants established for the SH 249 extension project, often referred to as the “Aggie Expressway.” The revenue generated from these tolls is critical for covering the project’s ongoing debt service, funding daily operational costs, and ensuring necessary maintenance to keep the roadway safe and in optimal condition for commuters and travelers.

The SH 249 extension project is owned by the Montgomery County Toll Road Authority, an entity formed to finance and oversee the construction of new toll facilities in the county. Daily operations and maintenance of the roadway are managed by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) through an agreement with MCTRA.

The SH 249 extension has been a significant infrastructure project for Montgomery County, providing a crucial north-south corridor that connects the Houston metropolitan area more directly with communities like Magnolia and Todd Mission, and ultimately extending connectivity towards Bryan/College Station. The first segment of the tolled portion in Montgomery County opened to traffic in the spring of 2020, with subsequent phases completing the route.

MCTRA officials emphasized that these adjustments are essential for the long-term financial stability and operational integrity of the toll road, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital transportation artery for the rapidly growing region.

Drivers who frequently use these sections of SH 249 and do not yet have an electronic toll tag are encouraged to obtain one to benefit from the lower toll rates and avoid potential surcharges. Information on obtaining an EZ TAG or other compatible transponders can be found on the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) EZ TAG website or the TxDOT website.