Proposed toll increases on the New York State Thruway may so seriously affect some truckers’ bottom lines that they will be forced out of the business, the New York State Motor Truck Association believes.
“Fuel and insurance increases have placed many carriers in jeopardy,” says a Truck Association press release. “These toll increases may seal the fate of some.”
The Thruway Authority has proposed a 25 percent toll increase for passenger cars and a 35 percent toll increase for trucks. The Thruway Authority board will vote on the plan April 25.
The plan would simplify the rate structures from 43 toll classifications to nine, but the Truck Association says this reorganization will boost truck tolls well beyond the announced 35 percent increase, according to the association’s calculations.
For the trucks going through the Woodbury Toll Barrier to Exit 24 near Albany, a five-axle combination toll is $14.10. The hike would increase the toll by 64 percent, to $23.10, if paid with cash; and by 56 percent, to $21.99, if paid through EZPass.
A six-axle combination now pays $14.10. This would increase to $28.70 if paid with cash, up 104 percent; and to $27.27 if paid through EZPass, up 93 percent.
A six-axle combination rig hauling two trailers that is less than 28 feet long now pays, through double charges, $17.20. The plan would increase that cash amount by 67 percent, to $28.70; and that EZPass amount by 59 percent, to $27.27.
