Residents of Louisiana are raising concerns over a 3% convenience fee charged for credit card transactions at the Belle Chase toll facility, a topic that dominated discussions during the Senate Transportation, Highways and Public Works meeting on May 29, 2025. The fee, which is applied each time a vehicle crosses the bridge, has sparked complaints from constituents who feel the charges are excessive and unclear.

Secretary of the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), Joe Donahue, addressed the issue, explaining that the fee is part of the payment process for using the GoPass electronic tolling system. Unlike another toll facility, LA 1, which does not impose a convenience fee, Belle Chase has been criticized for its approach. Donahue acknowledged that while the fee is intended to cover credit card processing costs, it is not transparent and can lead to confusion for users.

The discussion highlighted the potential financial impact on frequent users. For example, a driver making 500 trips a year could face significant charges over time, raising concerns about fairness and clarity in tolling practices. Donahue suggested that adjustments could be made to how the fee is applied, potentially charging it at the time funds are loaded onto the GoPass instead of at each crossing.

Representative Breaux, who represents the area, echoed these concerns, emphasizing that residents feel they are being overcharged for services they did not want in the first place. He pointed out that the project had already faced delays and that the current fee structure adds to local frustrations.

The meeting concluded with calls for a review of the fee structure and a clearer communication strategy to ensure that residents understand the costs associated with toll crossings. As the DOTD considers potential changes, the community remains hopeful for a resolution that addresses their concerns and improves the tolling experience.