Patrick: Can't Guarantee Toll Elimination In W. Mass.

Gov. Deval Patrick is no longer committed to eliminating tolls in western Massachusetts.

In fact, some western Massachusetts lawmakers are arguing to expand tolling west of Route 128 in Greater Boston.

Administration officials had said last fall the governor was committed to taking down all toll booths in western Massachusetts, except for two near the New York and Connecticut borders.

But Patrick said Monday he can't make that statement any longer because it's part of the legislative negotiations over his transportation overhaul legislation.

The Senate starts debate on the bill Wednesday. Next week, it moves to the House, where two members want to reinstate tolls removed in 1996 between Exit 1 in West Stockbridge and Exit 6 near Springfield.