Firms asked to bid on paying bridge tolls

Continuing its quest for toll-free passage for Bay Bridge motorists, the Maryland Transportation Authority asked companies yesterday to bid on paying bridge tolls Friday nights in July.

The authority earlier had sought proposals to cover tolls Friday nights in June in exchange for free advertising, but no companies bid. State officials concluded the problem was a lack of time to prepare bids.

Companies are again being asked to bid on covering tolls from 7 p.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Saturday. Proposals are due May 20. The three highest bidders will receive sponsorship benefits including banners at the toll plaza and toll-lane handouts.