The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey announced toll increases to start in the new year as the agency announced its 2025 proposed budget of $9.4 billion.
An inflation increase of 43 cents will begin. They also proposed an additional adjustment of 25 cents per year for autos and trucks, to be repeated in 2026-2028. If approved, drivers would have to pay about 70 cents more on Port Authority tolls.
Some New Jersey drivers reacted negatively to the news, saying that every cent counts.
“Not thrilled with toll increases,” said Gwen Florio.
“Inflation goes up but our paychecks doesn’t,” said Pedro Saldanha.
"Fifty-two weeks a year, it's quite a bit of money," said Larry Pettis.
The costs add up for everyone, especially when it is one’s only way to commute.
“My dad goes into New York every day. He's worked there over 35 years and leaves on off hours, so not always the best public transportation, so it adds up," said James Barracato.
With the congestion pricing plan expected to begin in January, it’s another expense to get into New York City.
“When you make it that much more difficult for people to go in, it impacts their quality of life overall, for sure," said Barracato.
It’s not only drivers that have to be ready for change. PATH riders will also pay 25 cents more each ride, the first increase since 2014.