The discussion about Thruway tolls is an opportunity for New York to rethink transportation funding. Iin both "red" and "blue" states, voter-approved, dedicated sales taxes are helping to fund public transit and highways. Why not here?
In 2010, $23.6 billion in sales taxes were collected in New York, of which 45 percent went to the state. An additional half-percent increase could generate a significant amount of money that could be divvied into various transportation accounts.
In 2008, the Canal Corp.'s operating cost was $49.1 million, plus $28.9 million in capital spending. Removing it from the Thruway Authority and giving it a percentage of this new tax could help solve the toll hike crisis.
In 2013, the state government will have to conclude an agreement with Amtrak for state funding of the Empire Service. Meanwhile, federal money for high-speed rail beyond the $505 million already received from the stimulus will not be forthcoming from a dysfunctional Congress. A new "intercity rail fund" could receive a percentage of this dedicated tax.
Our highways and public transit systems need to be repaired and expanded. What remains of this sales tax could boost funding for the Mass Transportation Trust Fund and the Highway and Bridge Trust Fund.
No one likes paying more in taxes, tolls, or fares. But without new money our transport system will not just stagnate but start to crumble. Without federal funds, we built the Erie Canal and became the Empire State. It's time to do so again.
BENJAMIN J. TURON
Ballston Spa