New York State Assembly

One of the most complex and highly publicized projects taking place in New York right now is the effort to replace the Tappan Zee Bridge. This endeavor will undoubtedly have long-term benefits for suburban drivers and other state residents, but not without a cost. If we are left with excessive tolls of $15 or more when the project is finished, those benefits quickly become outweighed by costs that New York's residents and businesses simply cannot afford.

For an infrastructure project of this size and scope, there are far too many questions regarding the specific costs to taxpayers. Officials at the New York State Thruway Authority, tasked with overseeing the construction of the bridge, have not yet released a financing plan for the bridge. While a portion of the costs will be covered by a federal loan, more than $2 billion in expenses are still to be determined. It is irresponsible governance to undertake a project of this magnitude without a concrete plan, especially if the default solution is to charge cash-strapped New Yorkers exorbitant tolls in order to make up the difference.

MERGING THE THRUWAY AUTHORITY AND DOT MAKES SENSE

The Thruway Authority has been ineffective for too long. I was one of the first, and most vocal, opponents of their proposed 45 percent toll hike on commercial vehicles and remain concerned about their fiscal mismanagement and lack of oversight and transparency. Their out-of-touch proposal would have been a serious blow to New York businesses already reeling from overtaxing and overregulation.

It's long past time to demand more accountability and information from the state officials charged with managing our roads and highways. Just last week, State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli reported that of the nearly $4 billion collected from highway taxes and fees each year, only 22 percent is actually used to pay for road projects.

I have proposed bill A.2088, or the New York State Thruway Authority Accountability Act, which names the commissioner of Department of Transportation (DOT) as chairman of the Thruway Authority board and directs the commissioner of DOT to submit a plan to merge the Thruway Authority into the DOT. Ultimately, the bill will restore accountability, increase efficiency, and reduce expenses by making structural reforms and statutory changes to the Thruway Authority.

By enacting this legislation we can begin to take the first steps toward meaningful reform of a broken agency. In times of fiscal distress, fly-by-night financing plans that could yield huge toll bumps and tax hikes that target New York's already struggling businesses are the last thing this state needs.

What do you think? I want to hear from you. Send me your feedback, suggestions and ideas regarding this or any other issue facing New York State. You can always contact my district office at (315) 781-2030 or email me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us.