Tolls in New York City: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning a trip to the Big Apple? If so, you should be aware of the tolls you may encounter while driving in New York City. Here's everything you need to know about tolls in NYC:

What Tolls Are There in New York City?

There are currently 12 tolled crossings in New York City:

• East River Bridges:
  • Brooklyn Bridge
  • Manhattan Bridge
  • Williamsburg Bridge
  • Queensboro Bridge
  • Triborough Bridge
• Hudson River Crossings:
  • George Washington Bridge
  • Lincoln Tunnel
  • Holland Tunnel
• Other Crossings:
  • Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
  • Cross Bay Veterans Memorial Bridge
  • Henry Hudson Bridge

How Much Are the Tolls?

Tolls for passenger vehicles range from $6 to $18, depending on the crossing and time of day. Here's a breakdown:
| Crossing | Peak Hours (6am-10am, 4pm-8pm) | Off-Peak Hours |
|---|---|---|
| East River Bridges | $18 | $10 |
| Hudson River Crossings | $16 | $11 |
| Other Crossings | $12 | $8 |

Note: Tolls are higher during peak hours to discourage congestion.

How to Pay Tolls

There are several ways to pay tolls in NYC:

• MTA e-ZPass: This is an electronic toll collection system that allows you to pay tolls without stopping.
• Cash: You can pay tolls in cash at toll booths.
• Tolls by Mail: You can receive a bill in the mail for tolls you incurred. However, there is an additional $10 fee for this service.

Which Method of Payment Should I Use?

The best method of payment depends on your individual needs:

• MTA e-ZPass: If you plan on making frequent trips through tolled crossings, e-ZPass is the most convenient option. It also offers discounts on tolls.
• Cash: Cash is the most straightforward option, but it can be time-consuming if you encounter long lines at toll booths.
• Tolls by Mail: Tolls by Mail is only recommended if you do not plan on making any additional trips through tolled crossings within 30 days.

How to Avoid Tolls

There are a few ways to avoid paying tolls in NYC:

• Take public transportation: Using public transportation such as buses, trains, or ferries can help you avoid tolls altogether.
• Avoid peak hours: If possible, try to avoid driving during peak hours when tolls are highest.
• Use toll-free crossings: There are a few toll-free crossings in NYC, such as the Staten Island Ferry and the Queens Midtown Tunnel for eastbound traffic only.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When traveling through tolled crossings in NYC, it's important to avoid the following mistakes:

• Not having the correct change: If you're paying tolls in cash, make sure you have the exact change as toll booths do not provide change.
• Driving in the wrong lane: Always make sure you're in the correct lane for your method of payment.
• Failing to display your e-ZPass: If you have an e-ZPass, make sure it's properly displayed on your windshield.

How to Navigate Tolls in New York City

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to navigate tolls in NYC:

1. Plan your route: Before you set out, plan your route and identify any tolled crossings you may encounter.
2. Choose your payment method: Decide whether you'll be using MTA e-ZPass, cash, or Tolls by Mail.
3. Prepare your payment: If you're paying in cash, have the exact change ready. If you're using e-ZPass, make sure it's properly displayed on your windshield.
4. Be aware of lane restrictions: Always pay attention to lane restrictions and make sure you're in the correct lane for your method of payment.
5. Proceed through the toll booth: If you're paying in cash, stop at the toll booth and hand the attendant your payment. If you're using e-ZPass, your toll will be automatically deducted from your account.

Additional Information

• According to the MTA, over 1 million vehicles cross tolled crossings in NYC every day.
• The MTA collects approximately $2 billion in tolls annually.
• The money collected from tolls is used to fund the maintenance and operation of the bridges and tunnels, as well as other transportation infrastructure projects in NYC.

Conclusion

Tolls in New York City can be a significant expense, but they are necessary to maintain and operate the city's transportation infrastructure. By understanding the tolls and how to pay them, you can avoid unnecessary delays and expenses while driving in the Big Apple.

Tables

Table 1: Tolls for Passenger Vehicles

Table 2: Toll Payment Methods

Table 3: Ways to Avoid Tolls

Table 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid