Toll Increase Pushes Commuters Into Transit

"Shifting more transit is definitely a good thing for the economy and the environment," said Veronica Vanterpool, associate director of the Tri-State Transportation Campaign. In addition, more E-Z pass, or electronic toll collection, reduces the queues at the toll booths. NJ Transit buses also reported slight increases in ridership, though some riders reported significant increases on their buses.

On Sept. 18, 2011, cash tolls rose to $12 from $8 (50%) for the George Washington Bridge, the Holland and Lincoln Tunnels, and three crossings between New Jersey and Staten Island. (The toll is collected from cars coming into New York; going to New Jersey is free.)"

"E-ZPass tolls during peak travel times rose to $9.50 from $8 (19%)" with future additional increases approved for both cash and E-Z pass. PATH subway fares rose 25-cents to $2.00 (14%).

"While transit across the region and especially across the Hudson River has seen tremendous growth in ridership, there hasn't been a comparable level of financial investment in transit service", remarked Tri-State's Veronica Vanterpool.

Thanks to Robert Piper