Gov. Jon Corzine was at the Essex Street Bridge project to announce a $300 million congestion relief plan Monday, which is part of his toll increase plan.

Corzine says his plan to increase tolls will make for a smoother ride on some of New Jersey?s congested roadways. The congestion relief plan would widen Route 17 between Hasbrouck Heights and Paramus, which Corzine says is one of the most congested spots in the state.

?If we don?t unclog this thing, you?re gonna end up with a lot of backdoor costs,? Corzine says.

The governor says residents already pay a hefty price being stuck in traffic. He says his toll increase plan will help pay for projects that will benefit drivers.

A study to design the Route 17 expansion project is scheduled to get under way in 2009.

For extended footage of Corzine?s press conference on the congestion relief plan, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.