Bragdon addresses Merrimack Town Council on toll relief

MERRIMACK – Town councilors said they’re willing to compromise on some sort of toll relief after a visit by Senate President Peter Bragdon, R-Milford. Bradgon came before the council at its regular meeting Thursday night to talk about what’s going on in the Senate, specifically addressing “the elephant in the room” that is Merrimack tolls. He has introduced a bill that would get rid of the toll plazas at Exits 10, 11 and 12, all of which are in town. The plazas were constructed 24 years ago after the town accepted roughly $50 million in road improvements to help promote industrial development. The  turnpike system is a separate, self-funded organization from the rest of  New Hampshire roadways, Bragdon said.“We’re sort of worn out,” Town Council Chairman Tom Mahon said. “From my perspective, I would appreciate if some groundwork would be done ahead of time before you go on the floor and talk about removing them.