Weekday commuters face latest toll hikes at MTA bridges and tunnels
NEW YORK -- Monday marked the first weekday commute since tolls on MTA bridges an tunnels went up over the weekend.
Between the toll hikes and gloomy weather, it wasn't an ideal way for most to start the week.
New York E-ZPass holders are paying six percent more now, an approximately 50 cent raise. Out-of-state tag holders and toll-by-mail drivers are paying 10 percent more, about a dollar extra.
Major MTA crossings include the Queens-Midtown Tunnel, Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, RFK Bridge, Bronx-Whitestone Bridge and the Throgs Neck Bridge.
"I think the increase is unfair. I think transit is too high," said commuter Troy Chapman.
Out-of-state E-ZPass holders may apply for a New York tag and take advantage of the discount, the New York Thruway Authority said.
Click here to see the new toll rates
In July, the MTA board unanimously approved hikes across the board, calling them reasonable to help fund operational costs.
"It's a resumption of the historic pattern of small fare increases every few years, so people can plan on it, so it doesn't suddenly blow anybody up," MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said at the time.
Subways, buses, Metro-North and the Long Island Rail Road are getting more expensive on Aug 20. Commuter rail fares will go up 4.5 percent. Subway and bus fares will rise to $2.90, marking the first fare hike in eight years.
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"I would prefer it not to go up because at this point in my life I'm on a fixed income. However, I do see a lot of improvement going on and I appreciate it. I am seeing where the money is being put," said Elizabeth Huertas, of Long Island.
Meanwhile, the MTA is also moving forward with congestion pricing in Manhattan, which could start as early as next spring. It means some drivers would have to pay an additional toll to enter below 60th Street.