Councilman Recchia Wants MTA Toll Hike Delayed Until Southern Brooklyn Rebuilds

After the Metropolitan Transit Authority voted to increase the public transit fees and the toll on the Narrows Bridge, Councilman Domenic Recchia is asking officials to delay the hike.

The start date of the new rates is March and Recchia is asking to hold it off because the recovery efforts in Staten Island and Southern Brooklyn are far from over.

He submitted his request by writing a letter to former MTA Chairman Joe Lhota, according to Brooklyn News.

MTA Chairman and CEO Joseph Lhota
347 Madison Avenue
New York, New York 10017

Dear Chairman Lhota,

I am writing you today to express my disappointment in the outcome of Wednesday’s Metropolitan Transit Authority (“MTA”) vote to increase the toll rate of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. This increase will place an additional financial burden on thousands of New Yorkers in Staten Island and South Brooklyn at a time when many are struggling to rebuild their homes and businesses in the wake of Superstorm Sandy. In light of ongoing recovery efforts, I implore you and the MTA to delay the implementation of this toll increase for at least a year and then reassess your decision.

As you are aware, the toll rate charged across the Verrazano Bridge is already the highest rate in the world at $13. The increase passed yesterday will raise this already burdensome rate by $2 dollars for those who pay cash, and $1.06 for those who use E-Z Pass. Residents of Staten Island who use E-Z Pass will see the rate increase from $5.76 to $6.36. During these difficult economic times, the last thing that these New Yorkers should have to face is an increase in travel expenses. Moreover, any additional out-of-pocket costs at this time for businesses and residents only further impedes rebuilding efforts.

Now is a time for all levels of government to work together with our constituents and businesses to facilitate the recovery efforts in our communities. In so doing, I believe that it is critical for us to find ways to alleviate the financial burdens on our families and businesses. Knowing your commitment to getting New York City back on its feet, I urge you and the MTA to readdress this issue at your next opportunity and delay the implementation of this toll increase for at least a year.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

Domenic M. Recchia, Jr.
Council Member, 47th District
Chair of the Finance Committee