Griffo opposes Thruway Authority toll increase proposal

New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-C-Rome, a member of the Senate’s Transportation Committee, submitted written comment to the New York State Thruway Authority opposing its proposal to raise tolls on E-Zpass users by 5% and 75% for non-E-Zpass users starting in 2024.  

“I expressed opposition to the Thruway Authority’s decision to raise tolls before, and I encourage others to do the same,” Sen. Griffo said. “This proposal will further burden New Yorkers and visitors to our state at a time when many are struggling due to inflation and other economic challenges. The legislative majorities and the governor recently agreed to and passed a $229 billion budget that included funding directed to the MTA and other authorities. They should have also considered dedicating revenue to alleviate the need for toll increases.”

Additional information on the authority's proposal and upcoming public hearings can be found here. Comments can be submitted electronically by emailing tollcomments@thruway.ny.gov or by mail at:  

Toll Comments
c/o Legal Department
New York State Thruway Authority
200 Southern Blvd.
P.O. Box 189
Albany, NY 12201-0189  

Sen. Griffo has continued to raise concerns about the state’s cashless tolling system and the detrimental effect that toll increases will have on motorists. He has communicated with state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and asked his office to consider an audit of the state’s cashless tolling initiative to ensure that it is operating properly and that safeguards are in place to protect the traveling public.   

The Comptroller’s Office recently released a report assessing the Thruway Authority’s finances and proposed toll increase. An audit of the Authority’s cashless tolls program is in progress, according to the office.  

Sen. Griffo’s comments to the Thruway Authority are below: 

Toll Comments 

C/O Legal Department 

New York State Thruway Authority 

200 Southern Blvd. 

P.O. Box 189 

Albany, NY 12201-0189 

To whomever it may concern: 

I am writing regarding the New York State Thruway Authority’s proposal to raise tolls on E-Zpass and non-E-Zpass users starting in 2024.  

New Yorkers are struggling to provide for their families because of inflation, high energy costs and other financial difficulties.  We must remain cognizant of these significant challenges. Increasing tolls and placing additional hardships on motorists utilizing the Thruway is irresponsible, especially as we continue to recover from the coronavirus pandemic. 

I recognize that there is a need to maintain the Thruway system and to ensure that people are able to move easily and safely throughout the state. However, I urge the authority, as well as the governor, to be sympathetic to the financial constraints of New Yorkers and their families and to do the right thing and reject these toll hikes. 

Thank you, 

Joseph A. Griffo 

New York State Senator, 53rd Senate District