Two weeks ago, Assemblyman Angelo J. Morinello (R,C,I,Ref-Niagara Falls) announced the kickoff of a new initiative highlighting the benefits of joining the New York State Thruway Authority’s E-Z Pass program. Project Green-Light was created by Morinello as a way to bring attention to possible solutions for the mounting traffic congestion issues surrounding the Grand Island tolls.

“By signing up for an E-Z Pass, commuters can fly by those long and tedious lines at the bridge entry points,” said Morinello. “Not only will you be saving a tremendous amount of time, but you’ll also be saving an extraordinary amount of money whether you are a resident of Grand Island or just a commuter who passes through.”

The New York State Thruway Authority currently offers a discounted E-Z Pass plan for the residents of Grand Island. The offer would reduce the cost of tolls for the Grand Island bridges from $1 per use to $0.09, saving residents $0.91 per trip with no minimum travel requirement.

The New York State Thruway Authority also offers a Grand Island Commuter Plan. This plan allows drivers to take advantage of a 72 percent discount when crossing the Grand Island Bridges. Trips would then cost a meager $0.28 versus $1.00. While the plan does require a minimum of 20 trips per month, this could be accomplished in as little as two weeks of daily travel.

“Non-Grand Island resident commuters will save a minimum of $14.00 a month, with Grand Island residents saving 91 percent of their travel fees per use,” said Morinello. “While the Western New York coalition continues to work with the Legislature on alternative solutions to the congestion issue, this current program is a great answer to the problem.”

Those interested in obtaining an E-Z Pass may do so through the Grand Island Clerk’s Office. For a discounted E-Z Pass plan, contact the New York State Thruway Authority at 1-800-333-8655 or contact Assemblyman Morinello’s office at 716-282-6062 for details on how to become an E-Z Pass tag holder.