PORTSMOUTH, Va. - A new project is in the works for Hampton Roads--big news could bring big construction of a possible 2nd Midtown Tunnel tube.

The Virginia Department of Transportation plans to pay for the project with public and private funding, in addition to toll boths at both the existing Midtown Tunnel and Downtown Tunnel in Portsmouth, a factor some drivers didn't want to hear.

"People get spun up when they hear tolls, but if they did it in such a manner [where] they didn't tax the locals, it would be a smarter way to go so that our local economy isn't penalized," said Kathleen Peterson.

"We certainly understand those concerns and that's why VDOT is committed to looking at the toll structure to figure out the best way to go about developing a project that will ultimately increase capacity and reduce congestion," said Shannon Marshall, a spokesperson for VDOT.

WAVY.com learned the project will be carried out in two phases. First is a feasibility study and a look at how to structure the tolls. Marshall said there is no set figure on the toll amount so far. The second phase will focus on engineering and construction costs.

Hampton Delegate Tom Gear, who sits on the state's Transportation Committee, is upset the plan only looks at southside tunnels. "It still doesn't address the major problems at the HRBT, the major problem in the Hampton Roads region is the HRBT and no one still wants to address it," he said.

As for the tolls, Chesapeake Sen. Frederick Quayle think's there's no other option. "I dont' think there's any question about that, the mood that the GA [General Assembly] is in now, I don't think we're going to see any transportation improvements that are not public-private partnerships and involve tolls. I don't care what it is I think that's what it's got to be at the moment."

Either way, many feel any project should have begun long ago. "We've been sitting on our hands forever in Tidewater and transportation," said Virginia Beach Delegate Bob Tata. "We really ought to be ashamed of ourselves."