BILL NUMBER: S4830A
SPONSOR: RYAN C
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the public authorities law, in relation to commuter
passes on the New York state thruway in the Syracuse area; and providing
for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof
 
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this bill is to enhance commuter safety and reduce traf-
fic congestion in the Syracuse area.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 of this bill would authorize the NYS Thruway Authority to
issue annual short term distance commuter permits which would allow
Thruway travel at no charge between Thruway Exits 34-A, 35, 36, 37, 38
and 39 around Syracuse. The fee for the permit would be limited to the
administrative cost of issuing the permit. Additionally, the bill would
allow the Thruway Authority to restrict the use of the permits to peak
commute hours, as determined by the Authority. If the Thruway Authority
can demonstrate a significant loss of revenue, the bill permits the
Authority to offer such permits at reduced cost per mile. This would
require a resolution of the Board after holding public hearings.
Section 2 of this bill provides that this act shall take effect on the
one hundred twentieth day after it shall have become a law and shall
expire December 31, 2030 when upon such date the provisions of this act
shall be deemed repealed.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
The NYS Thruway is one of the safest roads in the State, based on acci-
dents per mile. However, many commuters in urban areas choose to by-pass
the Thruway in favor of local roads and highways due to the cost of
toils. As a result, motorist safety is reduced, traffic congestion on
local roads is increased, and unneeded stress is placed on local infras-
tructure.
This legislation would encourage commuters in the Syracuse area to use
the Thruway on a more regular basis. It is anticipated that congestion
on local roads and highways will be reduced by greater utilization of
the Thruway. Additionally, the adoption of the E-Z Pass system has made
the Thruway more practical for commuters. Finally, the reconstruction of
Interstate 81 will cause significant travel disruptions in Central NY
during the estimated construction period. Opening the Thruway up to
commuters as an alternative route will help to divert some of this traf-
fic.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2023-24: S.3132 (Mannion)- Reported to Finance.
2021-22: S.8517 (Mannion) - Referred to Transportation.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred twentieth day after it
shall have become a law and shall expire December 31, 2030 when upon
such date the provisions of this act shall be deemed repealed.