Local residents get to speak out on Thruway toll increase proposal

"I think it stinks. I drive the thruway everyday to Rochester because I work there, but I think its terrible," said Sam Deb. Deb is not alone. Many motorists say they oppose a plan to raise toll fees on the New York State Thruway by 20 percent. "It was supposed to be free by this time they were supposed to lift all the tolls and this and that but...i think its just another way for the state to get more money," sid JeffBooth. Booth and Deb will get a chance to voice their opinion at a public hearing sponsored by stste Republicans in Rochester on Monday. "Certainly that type of toll increase on back of the one that they just put through in 2005 we believe is too much of a burden on consumers and businesses throughout the state," said State Assemblyman Brian Kolb. Kolb is calling for teh State Comptroller to audit theThruway Authority before any increase is approved. "To see if all the money thats being collected on the tolls is being used in the proper manner," said Kolb. The Thruway Authority says the toll hike was necessary because fewer cars are using the thruway thereby reducing their revenue. Thruway officials also say the increase was already factored into its 2008 budget and the.money is needed to offset $2.7 billion needed to maintain roads and toll plazas. Kolb is skeptical an increase is necessary. "What were saying is if youre spending the revenues that were currently getting on the wrong things or its not being spent efficiently then that doesnt justify a toll," added Kolb.