Nearly 200,000 city drivers may park their cars for good with the MTA’s next toll hike, AAA New York estimates.

The organization says drivers already pay too much in MTA bridge and tunnel tolls – $1.3 billion a year, with about one-third used by the MTA to subsidize subway, bus and commuter train operations.

If tolls go up again next year as planned, about 180,000 car owners might decide not to renew their registrations, AAA New York estimates, citing a registration dip after a previous toll hike. “With many motorists struggling financially, toll hikes could lead to a similar reduction, and with it, a loss of motorist-generated revenue to the MTA,” AAA New York said in a statement.

Next year’s planned toll hikes would raise fares for E-ZPass users by 5%, while most drivers paying cash would see a jump of approximately 18%.

The vast majority of drivers use E-ZPass.

A regular commuter paying with E-ZPass would shell out about $115 more a year, while a cash-paying commuter would pay an additional $500 in tolls annually, AAA calculated. AAA argues more government funds need to go to repair deteriorating bridges and roads across the state.

Transit advocates had little sympathy for drivers. “The AAA should quit whining about paying their fair share to help mass transit,” said Gene Russianoff of the Straphangers Campaign.

“Driving would be impossible without the most extensive subway, bus and commuter system in the Western Hemisphere,” he said.

Paul Steely White, executive director of Transportation Alternatives, agreed.

“Drivers benefit from public transit – it’s only fair they pay more,” White said.

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(Source: NY Daily News)