Starting January, commuters traveling between New York City and New Jersey will face higher toll rates on Port Authority crossings. This change comes as part of the agency’s annual toll adjustment, which affects all drivers using bridges and tunnels to enter New York. While the increase may seem small, it adds up for regular commuters and those driving during peak hours.
What Drivers Can Expect
Currently, drivers with an E-ZPass pay $15.38 during peak hours to enter New York. However, the new rates will add an extra 68 cents, bringing the total to $16.06 for peak-hour crossings. For motorists without an E-ZPass, who are billed via mail, the cost will jump to $18.31, reflecting the higher administrative fees associated with this payment method.
Understanding Peak Hours
Peak hours are the times when traffic is heaviest, and toll rates are higher to manage congestion. These hours are as follows:
- Weekdays: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Weekends: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Drivers traveling outside of these hours will still see a toll increase, though the rates during off-peak times are generally lower.
How the Toll System Works
The tolls apply only when entering New York; drivers are not charged when traveling into New Jersey. Additionally, all Port Authority crossings, including the George Washington Bridge, Lincoln Tunnel, and Holland Tunnel, are cashless. Motorists must pay either through E-ZPass or by mail, as cash payments are no longer accepted. This cashless system, implemented in recent years, aims to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion at toll plazas.
Why Are Tolls Increasing?
The toll hike is part of the Port Authority’s regular annual adjustments. These increases are designed to fund ongoing infrastructure projects, maintenance, and operational costs. As one of the busiest transportation networks in the United States, the Port Authority manages critical infrastructure that connects millions of commuters between New York and New Jersey.
The funds raised through tolls support projects such as bridge and tunnel repairs, modernization of transportation systems, and enhancements to public transit. While toll increases may frustrate drivers, the Port Authority emphasizes their necessity for ensuring the safety and efficiency of its crossings.
Impact on Commuters
For daily commuters, the toll increase represents a noticeable expense. A driver commuting five days a week during peak hours with an E-ZPass will pay approximately $3.40 more per week or over $170 annually. For those without an E-ZPass, the annual increase could exceed $200.
Many drivers are considering strategies to mitigate the cost, such as adjusting travel times to avoid peak hours or investing in an E-ZPass to take advantage of discounted rates.
A Modernized Toll System
The Port Authority’s shift to a cashless tolling system has streamlined the payment process and reduced delays. Drivers no longer need to fumble for cash or slow down at toll booths. Instead, tolls are automatically deducted via E-ZPass, or drivers are billed by mail through license plate recognition technology.
The January toll increase between New York City and New Jersey will affect all drivers using Port Authority crossings. While the rise may be modest, it underscores the cost of maintaining and improving the region’s critical transportation infrastructure. Drivers are encouraged to plan their trips carefully, especially during peak hours, to manage the financial impact of the new rates. Whether commuting daily or traveling occasionally, understanding these changes is essential for anyone navigating the bridges and tunnels connecting the two states.
