At midnight on Oct. 1 expressway operator NEXCO will converted the 13.3km Yakiyama Bypass that runs from Sasaguri Town to Iizuka City into a toll-free road. Proponents of the move expect it to spur tourism in the Chikuho Region of the prefecture and reduce distribution costs. Meanwhile, owners of restaurants and other establishments along National Route 201 worry that the new toll-free road will redirect traffic away from them and lead to reduced customer numbers. Opened in 1985, the Yakiyama Bypass currently costs ¥530 for regular vehicles. It will be made toll-free because the loans for the construction have been paid off. The road will be closed from 21:00 on 9/29 until midnight on 10/1 to remove the toll booths. Passengers on Nishitestsu buses bound for Iizuka and Yagawa should expect delays since the buses will have to use Route 201 as a detour. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun 9/30
