The New York State Thruway Authority is set to hold five public hearings concerning its plans to raise tolls in 2024. In May, four in-person hearings will take place: May 8 in Cheektowaga, Erie County; May 9 in Onondaga County; May 16 in Rockland County; and May 22 in Albany County. The series of public consultations will conclude with a virtual hearing on June 5.
Following the Thruway Authority board of directors’ vote in December to initiate the toll increase process, the proposal includes a 5% hike for New York E-ZPass users in 2024, with an additional 5% increase in 2027. Out-of-state E-ZPass users and tolls-by-mail rates would see a 75% higher toll compared to in-state E-ZPass holders, a significant jump from the current 15% and 30% differentials for out-of-state E-ZPass customers and tolls by mail, respectively.
The Thruway Authority has expressed that the toll increase is necessary to address capital requirements, such as extensive infrastructure upgrades along the 570-mile highway.
The virtual public hearing is slated for June 5, 4-7 p.m., and will be streamed at thruway.ny.gov. To participate, individuals should register at thruway.ny.gov, providing their name, phone number, and a valid email address. A confirmation email with instructions on commenting during the hearing will be sent.
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