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In a move that's likely to cause some grumbling among New Jersey drivers, toll hikes have taken effect today on the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway. The increases, which average around 15 cents on the NJ Turnpike and five cents on the Garden State Parkway, represent a three-percent rise in costs for motorists.
Governor Phil Murphy approved these hikes, arguing they are necessary for road maintenance and support of the NJ Transit system. The toll increase is part of a $2.6 billion budget for 2024 approved by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority. This is the third time tolls have been raised since 2020.
The decision to raise tolls was not universally welcomed. Some lawmakers and motorists expressed dismay at the announcement. The toll hike comes at a time when many families are already grappling with inflation and rising living costs.
This increase in tolls isn't the only financial blow for New Jersey commuters. It follows hot on the heels of an announced 15 percent spike in the cost of a ticket to ride an NJ Transit bus or train, scheduled to start from July 1st. This price rise is intended to help close a $106 million budget deficit faced by the transit authority.
Despite the controversy, proponents argue that these measures are necessary to ensure the continued operation and maintenance of the state's transport infrastructure. The funds raised by the toll increase are expected to contribute significantly towards road maintenance and improvements.