Drivers along the West Virginia Turnpike may pay higher tolls as early as June.

The West Virginia Parkways Economic Development and Tourism Authority agreed Monday to schedule a series of public hearings preceding a June vote on the amount of the increase.

One option being considered would raise tolls from $1.25 to $2 per barrier for cars and from $4.25 to $6.75 for five-axle trucks. Tolls have not increased on the 88-mile turnpike in 28 years.

The authority is facing declining revenues, increased maintenance costs and is in jeopardy of defaulting on its bonds.

It tried in 2006 to raise tolls by similar amounts, but a court ordered the rates rolled back because the authority gave insufficient public notice of its action.