Cuomo announces Verrazano toll reduction for S.I. residents, but not Brooklynites
While big changes are afloat for Verrazano-Narrows Bridge users, drivers on the Brooklyn side of the Atlantic have been left cooling their heels as Governor Andrew Cuomo announced permanent toll reductions for Staten Island residents in his recent State of the State address.
Launched to help transform New York City’s outer boroughs into “vibrant centers of economic activity and community wellness,” Cuomo’s plans will focus on projects like expanding access to affordable healthcare; establishing Brooklyn as a center of community health and wellness; incorporating the institute for basic research in developmental disabilities into the CUNY system and Verrazano Bridge toll reductions for Staten Island residents, among other projects.
The current (and ever-growing) $16 Verrazano Bridge cash toll costs E-Z Pass-using Staten Islanders $5.50 while other E-Z Pass users pay $11.08. Brooklyn residents, who utilize the bridge daily, have long been logging complaints with community boards, city agencies and elected officials regarding a fair toll for drivers from their side.