Supports DRBA Proposed Rate Increase

To the Editor:
The Delaware River and Bay Authority (“the authority”) recently held a pair of public hearings to discuss the goals and objectives of a proposed $1 toll increase and detail the critical infrastructure investments required at the bi-state agency’s crossing facilities, the Delaware Memorial Bridge and Cape May-Lewes Ferry. The base toll was last increased 11 years ago when it went from $2 to $3.
The effects of age and heavy use mandate substantial capital improvements in order for the authority to continue to provide safe and efficient travel across the Delaware Memorial Bridge. In 2010, approximately 35 million vehicles traveled over the bridge.
The increase is needed in order for the authority to raise the funds necessary to support a five-year, $100 million capital project that will maintain the aging infrastructure and preserve the authority’s facilities.
The capital projects include:
• $29 million for road work on I-295 in Delaware;
• $28 million for bridge painting and structural improvements on the Delaware Memorial Bridge;
• $15 million for dock work and replacement of antiquated passenger loading tubes at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry;
• $10 million for electronic toll collection upgrades;
• $9 million for cable and suspender rope inspection on the Delaware Memorial Bridge; and,
• $5.5 million for roadway rehabilitation and safety improvements.
The authority has followed a “pay as you go” policy to handle capital projects over recent years and the proposed increase will allow the Authority to maintain this fiscal discipline.
The Southern New Jersey Development Council (SNJDC) is a member-based organization charged with promoting sustainable economic development in South Jersey by working cooperatively with the region’s county economic development directors and promoting projects that will increase economic viability throughout the region for years to come.
On behalf of the SNJDC membership, I support the efforts of the authority and urge the adoption of the fare increase.
MARLENE ASSELTA
Blackwood
(Asselta is president of the Southern New Jersey Development Council (SNJDC)