New York's governor has intervened to stop the state's transit agency from imposing a $750,000 fee on the New York City Marathon for using the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. The marathon, organized by the New York Road Runners, is a beloved event held annually on the first Sunday of November.
The governor, a Democrat, directed the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to abandon the fee request, emphasizing the marathon's significance as a symbol of New York City's resilience and unity. Instead, she suggested alternative ways for the Road Runners to support mass transit, such as purchasing advertising on public buses and trains.
The MTA had justified the fee by citing the toll revenue lost when the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is closed for the marathon, which attracts over 50,000 participants each year. In response, the Road Runners argued that the increased transit ridership during marathon week more than compensates for any toll revenue losses.
Furthermore, the organization highlighted that in addition to the proposed fee, they already cover overtime costs for MTA staff, amounting to $150,000 last year. The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, named after an early European explorer, connects the boroughs of Brooklyn and Staten Island.
While the MTA declined to comment on the governor's directive, the Road Runners expressed appreciation for her support in resolving the issue. With the marathon serving as a unifying event for communities across the five boroughs, the decision to waive the fee ensures that this iconic race can proceed without financial hindrances.
