Portsmouth is the poorest locality in the region, he said. The city’s per-capita income of $23,363 is 70 percent of the state’s average of $33,326, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and 17.5 percent of the city’s population is below the poverty level, versus 11.1 percent for the state.

In a statement, McAuliffe said he wanted to reduce the tolls “so they would lessen the financial burden on commuters and businesses who use the tunnels every day.”

The project “must be built to reduce congestion, improve safety and propel economic opportunities for the region,” the governor said. “But we must execute it in a way that does not threaten business growth in the region or lessen the quality of life for Hampton Roads’ residents and our workforce.”

Under the revised toll schedule:

• From Feb. 1 through the end of the year, the peak-time toll rate will be $1, down from $1.84, and the off-peak rate for passenger vehicles will be 75 cents, down from $1.59.

• In 2015, the peak toll rate will go to $1.25, and the off-peak toll rate will become $1.

• In 2016, the peak rate will be $1.50, and the off-peak toll rate will be $1.25.