Legislation would offer CNY residents toll-free alternate to construction zones

Assemblyman Bill Magnarelli and Senator Chris Ryan sponsored and helped pass legislation (A.225-S4830-A) authorizing the New York State Thruway Authority to offer short distance commuter passes at no charge between the Thruway Exits in Onondaga County.

The passes will provide Central New York residents with a toll-free alternate east-west route through Onondaga County during the most intense part of the Interstate 81 re-construction project, which has now begun. The bill sunsets at the end of 2030 when construction should be completed.

The legislation passed the Assembly and the Senate and awaits the Governor’s Signature.

“The I-81 project is the largest, most complex transportation infrastructure project in Central New York in a generation. We are already adjusting to the impacts of the first phase of construction. The disruptions will be considerable when the bulk of the construction soon commences in Downtown Syracuse, severely impacting traffic patterns on the current I-81 and I-690,” said Assemblyman Magnarelli, chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee. “The Thruway I-90 provides an alternate east-west route that could divert traffic from the heaviest construction zones.”

Thruway tolls discourage people from using it regularly for short trips. The temporary commuter pass would allow residents to travel between local Thruway Exits without a fee.

“As the Senate sponsor of this legislation, I’m proud to partner with Assemblyman Magnarelli to make sure Central New Yorkers have a real alternative during the I-81 reconstruction. This toll-free commuter pass is a practical solution that helps residents avoid daily gridlock, saves money, and keeps our region moving. It’s the kind of smart, responsive policy our communities deserve while we invest in the future of our infrastructure. I urge Governor Hochul to sign this bill without delay so relief can reach commuters as construction ramps up."

Legislation gives the Thruway Authority the ability to conduct an audit to measure the fiscal impact of the passes and to further restrict their use to peak commuting times by adjusting the passes to a discounted rate. The bill sunsets at the end of 2030 to prevent any long-term financial impacts to the Thruway.

“The Thruway Commuter pass will alleviate congestion and public anxiety as Syracuse undergoes major construction for the I-81 reconstruction,” said Assemblyman Magnarelli. “We urge residents to reach out to their local and state officials to support this legislation.”