The mayor of Ocean City is worried a plan to hike tolls on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge could have a negative impact on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Mayor Rick Meehan says that some of the rates he has heard are “a little dramatic” and may be bad timing considering high gas prices. The Maryland Transportation Authority is proposing raising the price for most drivers from $2.50 to $5 to cross the bridge beginning in October. By 2013, the price would jump to $8 one-way. Meehan says he understands officials are proposing an increase due to budget shortfalls, but hopes for a compromise such as giving drivers an advantage for using EZ Passes.