The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is a suspension bridge that connects the boroughs of Staten Island and Brooklyn in New York City. It is an iconic landmark and an important transportation route, carrying over 200,000 vehicles per day. One of the most notable features of the bridge is its toll system, whih has undergone several changes over the years.
From 1964 to 1986, tolls were collected in both directions on the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. However, in an effort to reduce traffic congestion on Staten Island, tolls were eliminated for eastbound drivers in 1986. This meant that only westbound drivers had to pay a toll, with rates increasing over time.
As of 2021, the toll for passenger vehicles is $19 for those with E-ZPass and $9.50 for Staten Island residents with E-ZPass. For those without E-ZPass, the toll is $20. One unique feature of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge toll system is that it uses open-road tolling, where there are no toll booths or barriers. Instead, drivers with E-ZPass can drive through designated lanes without stopping, while those without E-ZPass have their license plates scanned and receive a bill in the mail.
The toll revenue from the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is used to fund bridge maintenance, repairs, and improvements. In recent years, the toll has been a topic of controversy, with some arguing that it is too high and places an unfair burden on Staten Island residents who have to cross the bridge frequently.
Despite the debates around the toll, the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge remains an important infrastructure project and a vital link between Staten Island and the rest of New York City. As the city continues to grow and change, it is likely that the toll system on the bridge will also evolve to meet the needs of drivers and commuters.
Toll for Crossing the Verrazano Bridge
The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, located in New York City, collects tolls in both directions. This means that drivers are required to pay a toll fee when entering and exiting the bridge, regardless of their direction of travel. However, it is worth noting that from 1986 to 2020, only westbound drivers were required to pay a toll in an effort to reduce traffic congestion.
The bridge carries 13 lanes of I-278 toll, which includes 7 lanes on the upper level and 6 lanes on the lower level. The upper level consists of 6 fixed-direction lanes and 1 reversible HOV lane. Meanwhile, the lower level has 6 lanes.
To summarize, tere is a toll fee for both eastbound and westbound travel on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. However, from 1986 to 2020, only westbound drivers were required to pay a toll.
Source: abc7ny.com
Does the Verrazano Bridge Accept Cash?
The Verrazano-Narrows Bridge does not accept cash. The bridge, along with other major bridges, tunnels, and toll roads across the United States, has implemented all cashless tolling. This means that drivers can no longer pay with cash or coins as they pass through toll plazas. Instead, tolls are collected electronically through E-ZPass or through a system that captures a photo of the vehicle’s license plate and sends a bill in the mail to the registered vehicle owner. This modernization of toll collection has many benefits, including reducing traffic congestion and improving safety for toll workers.
Conclusion
The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is a vital transportation link between Staten Island and Brooklyn, carrying thousands of vehicles every day. With its 13 lanes and toll collection system, the bridge has helped to alleviate traffic congestion and improve travel times for commuters and travelers alike. Additionally, the recent shift to all cashless tolling has made crossing the bridge even more convenient and efficient. the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of modern infrastructure, and will continue to serve as a crucial component of New York City’s transportation network for years to come.
