Governor Corzine is threatening legal action against New York City's bid to charge drivers extra tolls in congested parts of Manhattan. Mayor Michael Bloomberg's plan to charge an $8 fee for anyone driving below 60th Street between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays inched closer to approval on Monday with backing from the City Council. It's now in the hands of state legislators in Albany.
But Corzine says the proposal isn't fair to New Jersey drivers, who already pay through tolls to use the George Washington Bridge and the Lincoln and Holland tunnels.
"Unless this plan treats all drivers fairly, I am prepared to pursue legal action to protect New Jersey commuters from this outrageous action," Corzine said.
Bloomberg said Corzine seems to be using a double-standard.
"We don't understand why it's okay for the New Jersey Governor to hike tolls on New York cars on the Turnpike and Parkway to balance his State's budget, but New York can't raise revenue dedicated expressly for mass transit improvements for commuters across the region," said John Gallagher, without mentioning those higher tolls are still just a proposal.
"That seems to be a double standard, and we're certain that our plan is not only fair and equitable, but also that it will withstand any legal challenges he brings," he said.
Full Story: http://www.northjersey.com/news/northernnj/NJ_may_
sue_to_stop_NYC_congestion_pricing.html