Residents of the Capital Region should prepare for a modest toll hike on the New York State Thruway beginning in January. The increase, part of a multi‑year schedule that began in 2023, will add just one cent to the short Albany‑Schenectady trip – from $0.28 to $0.29 – and raise the Albany‑Buffalo charge from $12.80 to $13.41.
Why the tolls are going up
The Thruway Authority explains that the cost of maintaining the interstate has risen sharply. More than 75 percent of the highway’s bridges are now over 60 years old, requiring more frequent and expensive repairs. While the original 1982 promise was that tolls would fund construction, a 1992 legislative decision made the tolls permanent and redirected the revenue to ongoing maintenance.
Impact on drivers
For a typical passenger car getting about 25 miles per gallon, the short Albany‑Schenectady trip will cost roughly $1 in fuel at today’s average price of $4.39 per gallon. A year ago, when gasoline averaged $3.11, the same trip cost about $0.73. The longer Albany‑Buffalo drive will see fuel costs rise from $33.84 last year to $47.76 at current prices, illustrating how higher gas prices and the new toll combine to increase overall travel expenses.
Local voices
Long‑time commuter Buzz Slentz, who frequently drives a tractor‑trailer, expressed frustration. “These truck drivers, the owner‑operators, it’s gotta suck for them,” he said, noting that the toll increase adds to an already burdensome cost of doing business on the Thruway.
What officials say
The Thruway Authority emphasized that the modest increase is necessary to keep the highway safe and functional for all users. While President Trump has suggested that gasoline prices will eventually decline, Slentz replied, “I’ll believe it when I see it,” reflecting the skepticism many drivers feel.
How to calculate your toll
Motorists can use the Thruway’s online toll calculator to estimate the cost of any trip. The calculator and a detailed fact sheet on the upcoming adjustment are available on the authority’s website.
Looking ahead
This is slated to be the final scheduled toll rise under the current plan. Drivers and local businesses will need to factor the added cost into budgeting for travel and freight moving through the state’s key east‑west corridor.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
