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Senator Seward: put the brakes on thruway toll hike

By WKTV News

Story Created: Jun 5, 2012 at 2:12 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jun 5, 2012 at 2:13 PM EDT

ALBANY, N.Y. – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) spoke out Tuesday against the state Thruway Authority’s plan to hike tolls by as much as 45 percent on commercial truckers.

“The number of businesses that utilize the Thruway to ship their goods is vast and hiking the tolls will be costly – not only to those truckers but also to consumers,” said Senator Seward. “For example, if the price to deliver milk to manufacturing plants skyrockets, who do you think will foot the bill? The increase will be felt across the board by those who can least afford to pay more.
“Small towns and villages located near the Thruway can also expect an increase in traffic as truck drivers seek out alternative routes to avoid the outrageous toll hike. That will mean property tax hikes as local highway crews work to keep up with the wear and tear on roads not equip to handle such volume.”

The New York State Thruway Authority recently announced plans to increase Thruway tolls 45 percent on commercial vehicles with three or more axles. To implement any toll hike, the Thruway Authority is required to conduct an environmental review and hold at least three public hearings.

“At a time when we are trying to upgrade our business reputation, raising the cost of shipping for New York made products sends the wrong message. The proposed Thruway toll hike will cause major upheaval for self-employed truck drivers, farmers and businesses. We need to slam the gate on this idea before it goes any further,” concluded Seward.

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