July 15, 2015
The Delaware River Port Authority restored a toll discount for commuters who frequently cross its four bridges between Pennslyvania and New Jersey.
The DRPA approved a $1-per-round-trip discount Wednesday, according to KYW Newsradio, restoring a discount eliminated in 2011 for the 30,000 commuters who use the bridges at least 18 times per month. Those commuters will see their $5 round-trip toll reduced to $4 on the Benjamin Franklin, Walt Whitman, Betsy Ross and Commodore Barry bridges.
DRPA bridge discounts approved. Frequent drivers could get $18 monthly credit on EZPass statement starting mid fall.
— David Madden (@DavidMadden1060) July 15, 2015
The DRPA's finance committee recommended the discount earlier this month. Vice Chairman Jeffrey Nash told the Courier-Post the move was suggested because of a strong financial outlook, noting reserve funds will eliminate the need to raise tolls for at least the next five years. The discount will cost the DRPA about $6.4 million.
The governors of both Pennsylvania and New Jersey will need to ratify the measure before it goes into effect.
The 30,000 commuters who benefit from the discount represent 15 percent of the 200,000 drivers who use the four bridges on an annual basis. For E-Z Pass holders, the discount will appear as a credit. Half-fare rates for seniors will remain in effect.
