NJ Gov. Murphy set to greenlight toll increases
New Jersey Approves Toll Increases for State’s Roadways
The New Jersey Turnpike Authority has unanimously approved toll increases, meaning commuters in the state will have to pay more to drive on the state’s roadways. The authority’s board of commissioners recently gave the green light to a $2.6 billion budget for 2024, which includes a 3% toll increase for both the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway.
The toll hikes, set to take effect on March 1, will result in an average increase of 15 cents on the turnpike and 5 cents on the parkway, according to Turnpike officials. This decision marks a significant change of heart for Governor Murphy, who previously vetoed a similar budget proposal by the transit agency.
Investing in Safety and Mobility
Despite his previous objections, Governor Murphy is now expected to sign the Turnpike’s 2024 budget, including the toll increases. A spokesperson for Murphy stated, “By responsibly investing in the maintenance of our state’s highways and mass transit, we are continuing to prioritize the safety and mobility of all New Jersey residents and commuters.”
The reasons behind Murphy’s change of heart and the actions taken by the commission to address his concerns remain unclear. However, this toll increase will be the fourth since 2000, with the previous budget proposal also calling for increased spending and additional employees for the state agency.
Impact on Commuters
These toll increases come alongside higher fares for the New Jersey Transit Authority, which recently announced a 15% systemwide fare hike set to take effect on July 1. Additionally, New Jersey commuters traveling to New York will soon face a new toll as the city’s “congestion” pricing plan is implemented, charging a $15 fee for entering Manhattan below 60th Street.
Unsurprisingly, Republicans have criticized the toll increases, accusing Governor Murphy of political maneuvering ahead of the fall elections. Senate Minority Leader Anthony Bucco stated, “Toll increases will be the latest broken promise by Governor Murphy and fellow Trenton Democrats.”
How will the revenue generated from the toll hikes be used to improve the quality and safety of New Jersey’s roadways?
Highways. The toll hikes, which were proposed by Governor Phil Murphy, will take effect in September and will impact drivers on both the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway.
The decision to raise tolls comes as the state grapples with the need to fund necessary infrastructure improvements and repairs. The increased revenue generated from the toll hikes will go towards these much-needed projects, aiming to enhance the quality and safety of the state’s roadways.
According to the proposal, tolls for cars on the Turnpike will increase by 27% in September, with additional increases of 3% in 2022 and 2024. Similarly, tolls on the Garden State Parkway will see a 27% increase followed by 5% increases in 2022 and 2024. It is also worth noting that commercial truck tolls will also rise, at a higher rate than passenger vehicles.
Governor Murphy defended the toll hikes, arguing that they are essential to address the state’s ongoing transportation challenges. He highlighted the dire condition of many roads and bridges in New Jersey, emphasizing that the toll increases will fund important projects aimed at improving infrastructure and ensuring the safety of drivers.
Critics, however, have voiced concerns over the toll hikes, citing the financial burden they will place on commuters and businesses. They argue that the timing of the increases, amid a recovering economy from the COVID-19 pandemic, is particularly worrisome. The toll hikes could potentially have a negative impact on businesses already struggling to regain their footing.
Proponents of the toll increases argue that they are necessary to keep up with rising costs of road maintenance and construction. They note that the last toll increase on the Garden State Parkway was over a decade ago, while the last increase on the Turnpike was in 2012. They argue that without the additional revenue, projects to repair deteriorating roads and bridges could be delayed or even canceled.
The toll increases are also seen as an attempt to reduce the state’s reliance on borrowing to fund infrastructure projects. By generating additional revenue through toll hikes, the state can minimize the need to take on debt and reduce future financial obligations.
New Jersey is not the only state to increase tolls as a means of funding transportation projects. Many other states, faced with similar infrastructure challenges, have turned to toll increases as a way to generate revenue. While it may be an unpopular decision among drivers, toll hikes have become a common solution to address the funding gaps that often plague transportation systems.
Overall, the toll increases approved by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority aim to provide vital funding for crucial infrastructure improvements. While they may cause short-term financial strain for commuters and businesses, they are seen as necessary steps to ensure the long-term safety and efficiency of the state’s roadways. It remains to be seen how these toll hikes will be received by the public and the impact they will have on the state’s transportation network.
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