Port Authority toll increase goes into effect - Los Angeles Local News, Weather, and Traffic

The morning commute is a little more expensive for commuters going from New Jersey to New York. 

That's because for the second time in two years, tolls on all Port Authority bridges and tunnels increased by one dollar.  

Commuters must be prepared to cough up more cash if you use a Port Authority bridge of tunnel starting Sunday. There's a new toll hike in effect and it won't be the last. 

"It's more money that we have to pay and I don't understand why," said one frustrated commuter. 

The latest Port Authority increase raises the cash toll to $13 at the Holland and Lincoln tunnels, at the George Washington and Bayonne Bridges and the Outerbridge Crossing.  

That's up a dollar and drivers are not happy. 

"I don't know, I can't believe that and really I don't see what they're doing with repairs – what are they doing with all that money?" added another driver.  

"Looks like I'll have to get another job," said another commuter who took it all in stride. 

E-Z pass users are paying more too, but get a bit of a break with a $0.75 increase, that brings the peak toll to $10.25 and $8.25 off peak. 

"I have an EZ Pass but I don't like the fact that they're raising the tolls, but it's sort of transparent with EZ Pass," said one driver. 

"Disgusting... disgusting, people who often everyday go through this bridge – for them it's a dramatic expense," said one upset commuter. 

The Port Authority says they need the money for security and for rebuilding the World Trade Center complex. The AAA filed a lawsuit against the PA claiming the hikes violate federal law, but there's been no resolution -- so drivers must pay. 

This is only the second of five annual toll increases, so what difference will it make? The Port Authority says they expect your higher tolls to pump $150 million into their bank account next year.