Jersey City Access Toll System Proposal

Goal: Establish a fair-use toll system at key entry points into Jersey City to generate dedicated funding for public schools, infrastructure improvements, and community programs — without placing a financial burden on city residents or local workers.

Overview

Jersey City is a major transportation hub for the region, serving as a corridor between New Jersey communities and New York City. Every day, thousands of non-residents drive through Jersey City without contributing to the maintenance of our roads, the safety of our streets, or the funding of essential services that their travel impacts.

This toll system would capture revenue from non-local commuters who use our infrastructure but do not pay into our tax base, ensuring that those who benefit from our roads also help fund their upkeep and our community needs.

Key Features

1. Toll Points at All Major Entry Access Routes

   • Placement on bridges, tunnels, and major roadways connecting to Jersey City:

     • Holland Tunnel approaches

     • Pulaski Skyway entrances/exits

     • Routes 1&9 Truck and Tonnelle Avenue access

     • Communipaw Avenue, Grand Street, and other high-volume entry corridors

2. Resident & Local Worker Exemptions

   • Resident Exemption: Jersey City residents registered with a local address in the toll database receive automatic toll waivers via license plate recognition or EZ-Pass integration.

   • Local Worker Exemption: Employees who work in Jersey City but live outside the city can register their work address and employment verification to receive exemptions during commuting hours.

3. Technology Integration

   • License plate recognition (LPR) cameras and EZ-Pass compatibility to ensure seamless, contactless billing.

   • Online portal and mobile app for residents and workers to register for exemptions and manage accounts.

Revenue Allocation

All revenue would be earmarked and legally protected to ensure funds are invested directly into Jersey City’s priorities:

• Public Schools: Technology upgrades, facility improvements, and expanded after-school programs.

• Community Needs: Youth recreation programs, senior services, public libraries, and neighborhood beautification.

• Infrastructure: Road repairs, pedestrian safety measures, and green space improvements.

Equity & Fairness

• No Double Taxation for Residents: Those already contributing through property taxes, rent, and local spending will not pay.

• Environmental Benefits: Reduced traffic congestion and emissions from unnecessary pass-through traffic.

• Shared Responsibility: Regional commuters contribute to the cost of maintaining the infrastructure they use.

Implementation Steps

1. Feasibility Study – Conduct traffic pattern analysis, legal review, and cost-benefit projections.

2. Technology Procurement – Install tolling and license plate recognition systems at entry points.

3. Public Registration Drive – Allow residents and local workers to register for toll exemptions.

4. Pilot Program – Begin with a select number of entry points before expanding citywide.

5. Full Rollout – Implement across all designated access routes with continuous performance review.

Projected Impact

• Estimated Annual Revenue: $50–$75 million (based on commuter volume and comparable municipal toll models).

• School & Community Funding: Potential to cover millions in school needs annually without raising property taxes.

• Traffic Management: Decrease in congestion from non-essential through-traffic.

Toll locations for non-resident vehicles - *Residents & registered workers exempt.

1. Holland Tunnel Entrance (14th Street) – Northern entry into Jersey City from Manhattan.

2. Pulaski Skyway Entrance – Main westbound/eastbound connector to Newark and Route 1&9.

3. Route 1&9 Truck at Communipaw Avenue – Heavy commercial and freight route into Jersey City.

4. Tonnelle Avenue Entrance – Northern commercial and commuter access point.

5. Grand Street Eastbound Entry – High-volume local connector to downtown Jersey City.

6. Communipaw Avenue Eastbound Entry – Major access route into the west and central parts of the city.