Port Authority Toll Hikes Anger Truck Drivers

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey toll hikes that went into effect yesterday have many truck drivers angry — and questioning where their money is going.

The toll hikes went into effect on the George Washington Bridge, Outerbridge Crossing, Bayonne and Goethals Bridges, as well as the Lincoln and Holland tunnels.

Increased Tolls To Impact Trucking

One of the nation’s most expensive tolls just got even more costly for truck drivers, with rates for 5 axle trucks going up to $105 from $95 during peak hours while 6 axle trucks will have to hand over a staggering $126 during peak hours.

Many Wonder Where the Money Is Going

Many truck drivers have called into question the Port Authority’s use of the extra money. One truck driver told reporters, “There’s a lot of people up there using a lot of money for a lot of things that are not going back into the services they guaranteed us.”

The Port Authority says that the toll increases will result in $123 million in additional revenue that will go towards $3.5 billion in planned projects, which include  $1 billion to complete the World Trade Center and $15 million for a Manhattan bus terminal. $460 million will go towards a rebuilding project at LaGuardia Airport.

No More Toll Hikes Likely In Near Future

The Port Authority says that they likely will not raise tolls again anytime soon.

You can click here for a complete breakdown of the toll increases.

Sources:
CBS New York
WNYC
The Daily Voice