BIONDI, ANGELINI AND RIBLE RAIL AGAINST TOLL INCREASES:

BIONDI, ANGELINI AND RIBLE RAIL AGAINST TOLL INCREASES:PROCESS FLAWED/CONSEQUENCES WILL TRICKLE DOWN TO TAXPAYERS

With the final hearing completed on the Turnpike Authority’s proposal to raise tolls on two of New Jersey’s most traveled highways, Assembly Republicans once again voice their objections over the manner in which the hearings were conducted, the economic impact the increases will have on state residents and businesses, and the out-of-touch public policy such increases will represent.  The third revision to the plan that was originally put forth by Governor Corzine in January, calls for a 42% raise on the average Turnpike trip, and a 43% increase on the Parkway.  The increases could take effect before the end of the year.  Assembly Republican Conference Leader Pete Biondi, along with Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini and Assembly Minority Whip Dave Rible were among those who continued to speak out against the plan.

“The public should be more than disappointed at the way the process was handled regarding the toll increase proposal,” stated Biondi (R- Somerset, Morris).  “Four hearings were held, three of which occurred during the day, when most people are at work.  Two of those hearings were in Woodbridge, neglecting other areas of the state which will be hit the hardest by raising the tolls, such as residents near the Jersey Shore.  I guess if you don’t want to listen to objections, then a good strategy is to avoid holding the hearings where there is widespread opposition.  There were other solutions to fund the state’s transportation issue, but with this administration, no viable suggestions are welcome from the outside.”

After the second public hearing, Governor Corzine directed the Authority to reduce the proposed increases, which resulted in hikes that will be put into place immediately, followed by additional rate increases in 2012.  The Authority has eliminated the hikes scheduled for 2023.  The revenues raised from the increases will be used for roadway improvements and help to fund the $1.25 Hudson rail tunnel.

“The governor and the Turnpike Authority are failing to grasp the unintended economic consequences this hike will have on commuters and consumers,” commented Angelini (R – Monmouth).  “When revenues fall on these highways as people seek alternative routes, and the trucking industry finds others roads to use, then where we look?  The Turnpike is a major connector for businesses shipping products to New Jersey and other east coast states.  If they can find a less expensive option for transporting their goods, they’ll use it.  In today’s uncertain climate, taxpayers and businesses are always looking to derive efficiencies.  I can’t say the same for this state’s government.  They seem to always take the easiest way out, regardless of who that will hurt.”

“These increases are a disservice to the public, as well as the business community,” stated Rible (R – Monmouth).  “When businesses steer clear of these roadways to avoid the toll hikes, our revenues will be down and the public will suffer.  If companies continue to travel these highways and pay the increases, the public will still suffer.  It is not too complicated to realize that when a business incurs additional operating expenses, the consumer will bear the brunt through increased prices.  That is simple economics.  Public policy decisions should not be driven by research that looks at how much of a financial impact taxpayers are willing to absorb.  Common sense tells most people that now is not the time to ask people to dig a little deeper.”                                        #####