Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I—Pulaski) said today he opposes the New York State Thruway Authority’s proposed 45% toll increase for commercial vehicles, saying this would hurt our economy and deter truckers from traveling through New York altogether.

“This latest proposed toll increase is poorly conceived. At a time when our economy is teetering on a recovery and many communities have been deeply affected by unemployment, adding to the cost of doing business in this state is a bad idea,” said Barclay.

“Passing another toll hike will make it tough for trucking companies to stay in business. These companies provide thousands of jobs so we also risk putting more people out of work. New York companies already deal with taxes, energy, workers’ comp and regulatory costs that add up to more than many can afford in order to stay competitive,” said Barclay.

Tolls would increase for trucks with more than three axels effective October if the plan passes. According to media reports, the trip for a commercial truck from Albany to Buffalo would increase from $61.89 to $89.73. According to the New York State Motor Truck Association, truckers in New York already pay the second highest per truck in state and federal user fees per year.

“This kind of increase is too much to ask. Those costs will be passed down to wholesalers and retailers, who will, in turn, pass the costs on in the form of increased prices at the checkout,” said Barclay.

By law, the Thruway Authority must hold public hearings after a toll increase is proposed. There will be one held on Aug. 17 in Syracuse at the Double Tree Hotel, 6301 St. Rt. 298 in East Syracuse. Barclay urged those who cannot attend the hearing to submit their thoughts to tollcomments@thruway.ny.gov or mail comments to New York State Thruway Authority, 200 Southern Boulevard, Albany, NY 12209.