NEW YORK, NY - The following can be attributed to Tom Wright, President and CEO of Regional Plan Association:

“Investing in our regional transportation system is essential for those who live and work here and to support continued economic growth. The Port Authority has recently announced important amendments to its capital plan to build transit links to our airports, which will benefit both drivers and transit riders. RPA has long advocated for drop-off and pick-up charges to pay for these investments. We applaud the Port Authority for their proposal to join other major airports around the country in doing this.

While nobody ever wants to pay more, toll increases on our congested tunnels and bridges are necessary to generate investment in our infrastructure systems and maintain regional competitiveness. It’s more important than ever to reduce carbon emissions and fund critical trans-Hudson projects including Gateway, PATH, and the Port Authority bus terminal. RPA strongly supports the Port Authority in taking these steps.”