New York City cyclists participating in the annual Five Boro Bike Tour expressed anger towards the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) on Sunday for considering charging the event for lost tolls from the Verrazzano Bridge.
Organizers and participants of the bike tour were alarmed by the MTA’s reported threat to impose a hefty toll bill on the event. The proposal drew comparisons to a previous backlash faced by the New York City Marathon, where the MTA had suggested charging the marathon organizers hundreds of thousands of dollars for tolls lost during the race on the Verrazzano Bridge.
Despite Governor Kathy Hochul’s intervention to prevent the toll bill for the New York City Marathon, concerns remained for the Five Boro Bike Tour as the organizers had not received any assurances of avoiding a similar fate in the future.
Cyclists voiced their frustration over the potential toll charge, emphasizing the negative impact it could have on participation rates. The uncertainty surrounding the issue raised worries about a possible increase in the bike tour’s entrance fee, potentially deterring riders from joining the event.
Kenneth Podziba, CEO of ride-organizer Bike New York, expressed concerns over the MTA’s lack of evidence regarding lost revenue due to the bike tour. Podziba highlighted the charitable nature of the event and urged for a resolution to the ongoing toll controversy.
The MTA’s plans regarding toll charges for the bike tour in the upcoming years remained undisclosed, leaving organizers and participants in limbo. With the controversy unfolding amidst the broader debate on congestion pricing in Manhattan, tensions were high regarding the financial implications for the iconic cycling event.
Participants shared their attachment to the unique experience of biking across all five boroughs of New York City, with the Verrazzano Bridge serving as a crucial component of the tour. The possibility of cutting off access to the bridge due to toll-related costs raised concerns about the tour’s future appeal and logistical challenges.
As the cycling community rallied against the potential toll burden, calls were made for a fair resolution that would preserve the essence and accessibility of the Five Boro Bike Tour. Despite the uncertainties looming over the event, organizers remained hopeful for a successful and inclusive cycling experience in the years to come.