In December, Gov. Ed Rendell announced that he was researching the possibility of privatizing the Pennsylvania Turnpike because of a $1.7 million shortfall in transportation funding. The governor set a Dec. 22 deadline for exploration, when he would then analyze letters of research and propose legislation this month.

Along came January and 48 letters later -- including one from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) -- a new suggestion has arisen. Privatizing the turnpike could lead to a toll on Interstate 80, the longest east to west highway in Pennsylvania that, for some people, serves as an alternative route to the turnpike.

PennDOT press secretary Rich Kirkpatrick said although no official decisions have been made on whether or not I-80 would be tolled, the possibility of tolling the roadway is being explored. Because privatizing roadways often means an increase in tolls, some are concerned that drivers not willing to pay higher rates on the turnpike will instead take Interstate 80, increasing traffic and wear-and-tear on the road. To combat this, Carl DeFebo, media and public relations manager for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, said a toll would be necessary.

For drivers, it is no surprise Pennsylvania roadways are in less-than-stellar condition. Potholes, massive construction projects and heavily traveled roads have taken their toll on the roadways.

At first the idea of paying more money to drive may seem excessive -- especially considering the fact that the turnpike increased its rates a few years ago and gas prices are anything but low. However, if this money is used effectively and goes toward fixing poor road conditions, then we should all be welcoming the toll. Pennsylvania's flawed roads are a safety issue, and this system of tolling is a fair one. The more you travel on the roads, the more you pay. People are not going to stop driving because of increasing tolls, as was proven in 2004 when turnpike tolls increased 42.5 percent with no evidence of a decrease in traffic. Complaints may increase, but a decline is likely not to.

There are still many unanswered questions that need to be addressed once a more official decision and contract have been suggested. If the turnpike becomes privatized, then toll caps and logistics as to how much money goes back to the state will need to be debated. If Interstate 80 becomes a tolled road then that money needs to go directly toward the reparation of roadways in the state, and the fee for the road should be reasonable and less than the turnpike.

It comes down to individual drivers. For students, choosing the quickest route and driving on the turnpike, regardless of price, when returning to school may be the best option. For others, the slightly longer but less stressful I-80 route may be the best choice.

Regardless, a $1.7 million shortfall in transportation funding is a problem, and tolling drivers who choose to travel on those roads seems to be a fair and reasonable solution.