Staten Island lawmaker proposes law that would require high-speed E-ZPass lanes at all toll plazas

http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/05/staten_island_lawmaker_propose.html

by Staten Island Advance

Thursday May 21, 2009, 3:57 PM

A bill that would mandate high-speed E-ZPass lanes at all New York toll booths, including at the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, was introduced by state Sen. Andrew Lanza, who called it "good for the environment."

The measure would require the New York State Thruway Authority and Metropolitan Transit Authority to establish at least one high-speed lane at all toll booth plazas for E-ZPass use.

Lanza (R-Staten Island) said it would "save time ... and conserve fossil fuel," by permitting E-ZPass holders to drive through tool booths at a speed of 55 mph. He said that now, with drivers having to slow to a near stop before accelerating to a normal speed, it "results in excessive and unnecessary pollution, a wasteful burning of fuel and a loss of time and convenience."

He said the change would also reduce traffic congestion at toll plazas and save motorists money in gas.

"By reducing pollution and greenhouse emissions, we will not only help the environment and save fuel, but also improve the air quality, which will yield health benefits," said Lanza.

Assemblyman Matthew Titone (D-North Shore) will carry the bill in the Assembly.

-Reported by Judy L. Randall