OGUNQUIT (AP) – Posh resort towns along the coast are likely to be among the most vocal – and the most affected – if state officials in Maine and New Hampshire change highway toll structures.

At a meeting Friday, the Maine Turnpike Authority board of directors will consider a proposal to raise fares at the York Toll Plaza by 25 cents during the summer. Turnpike officials in Maine and New Hampshire are also studying the feasibility of one-way tolling and a year-round increase beginning in February.

But concerns over adjusting the poll structure in Maine and New Hampshire hinge on fears that an already packed Route 1 will become worse as drivers attempt to avoid the tolls.

Manger Scott Dunn, town manager in Ogunquit, recently suggested signs along the turnpike to notify northbound drivers of major tie-ups on Route 1, a two-lane road in Ogunquit.

Turnpike officials said they will discuss the idea with town representatives, but they have stressed a cautious approach.

“We have a high standard for using those signs,” said Dan Paradee, a turnpike spokesman. “If you use them all the time, they become like wallpaper, and nobody pays attention to them.”

The issue of diverting traffic onto Route 1 is stirring debate in New Hampshire, as well. State transportation officials have recommended bringing back one-way tolling on Interstate 95 for a trial period between May and October.

For 10 weeks last year, New Hampshire eliminated the $1 toll for southbound vehicles and doubled the northbound fare to $2.

A state report shows New Hampshire lost approximately $180,000 in revenue, and traffic along Route 1 increased by about 10 percent. The report also found that one-way tolling eliminated severe traffic backups.

“They already know there’s diversion. They’ve measured it. They’ve lost revenue,” said Bob Landman, chairman of the Seacoast Metropolitan Planning Organization.

AP-ES-03-25-04 0217EST