(AP, ABC7) - The Maryland Transportation Authority board has agreed to scale back a proposed toll hike increase on the Bay Bridge after public outcry.

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The board agreed Thursday on a plan to raise the toll to $4 in November and $6 in 2013. It originally proposed increasing the toll to $5 on Oct. 1 and $8 in 2013.

“I travel it twice a week. At $2.50 it's a bargain. $3 dollars is fair, $6 is a bit strong,” said Shawn Moran of Pasadena.

The decision came as the board agreed on revisions to a package of toll increases that were proposed in June. Area residents turned out in droves at public hearings this summer to protest the proposed hikes.

“That's the only gateway I know of to get to the eastern shore,” said Fort Washington resident Williams Hernandez.

Officials say the increases, the first since 1975, are necessary to maintain toll facilities.

A formal vote on the package is scheduled for Thursday.