Driving On The NYS Thruway Is About To Get Even More Expensive

For frequent drivers on the New York State Thruway, some potentially bad news could be coming your way, 

Get our free mobile app

This holiday season, with so many of us hitting the road to visit relatives and friends, New Yorkers can plan on shelling out big bucks on gas and other travel expenses. Thankfully, we can all be relieved that gas prices aren’t as high as they once were, but we know we’ll still have to pay for our tolls if we’re traveling along the New York State Thruway.

We’ve seen some impressive improvements on the New York State Thruway these past few years, including the revamping of their service areas. However, maintaining efficiency and improving amenities comes at a price - one that New York state drivers will be paying out of their own pockets. 

New York State Wants To Increase Thruway Toll Rates

This Monday, the New York State Thruway Board of Directors will propose a state-wide toll rate increase at its board meeting. The reason for the price hike, as given by the board, is so the thruway can “meet future capital needs, fund outstanding debt, and continue to provide reliable service to its patrons.”

“Considering the recent landmark investments made into the system and the significant role the Thruway plays in the New York State and regional economies, it is imperative that actions be taken now to enhance operational efficiency and ensure the continued reliability of the system.” - NYS Thruway Board of Directors

If the motion is approved, that would mean that E-Z Pass users in New York state would see a 5% increase in toll rates beginning on January 1, 2024, with another 5% increase coming in 2027. For thruway drivers who do not use E-Z Pass, the rates would be even higher. 

The good news is that if the thruway toll price hike is a go, they won’t get more expensive until 2024. But the obvious bad news is that no matter what New York state drivers do to save on fuel and other traveling expenses, they can still plan on it becoming even more expensive to use the Thruway.