NYS Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli is saying not so fast on the proposed Thruway toll hike.
The Thruway Authority wants to raise tolls for E-ZPass users by five percent next year and again in 2027, with a much bigger hike for those who don't use E-ZPass
DiNapoli released a report Friday saying a toll increase, or adjustment as the Thruway Authority likes to call it, should be a last option.
DiNapoli says there have been several factors that have influenced the Thruway's finances and operations in the last ten years, including problems with the rollout of cashless tolling and the 3.8 billion dollars spent on the construction of the Cuomo Bridge.
The report suggests a comprehensive assessment of operating needs and expenses and urges the Thruway to look for non-toll revenue, such as federal funding.
DiNapoli says “The Thruway should be more transparent with the public and disclose critical information and identify and put in place all possible cost-savings and alternative revenue actions to minimize costs to drivers. Raising tolls should be the last option, and the Thruway has more work to do.”
In response, the Thruway Authority spokesperson Jennifer Givner says
"We believe this modest proposal will begin to raise additional revenue to support the long-term financial needs of New York’s main transportation corridor and engine for economic activity. We would be happy to discuss this with the Office of the State Comptroller at any time.”
There will be public hearings on the toll hike proposal this year -- it wouldn't go into effect until 2024.