Open letter to Mr. Matthew W. Daus, Commissioner/Chair, New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission:
I write hoping to work in conjunction with your office, to address an issue that affects a multitude of residents who reside in the New York City metro area. Specifically, my office has received numerous calls regarding exorbitant fees for taxi rides from Manhattan to New Jersey municipalities that rest immediately outside of both the Lincoln and Holland Tunnels, such as Hoboken, Union City, Weehawken and Jersey City.
In many instances, New York City taxi drivers charge $50 for rides that are only a few short miles and minutes away from destinations within very close proximity to the New Jersey side of the tunnels. Clearly, these fees surpass what a metered ride would cost.
Moreover, the fee for a ride to New Jersey far exceeds the cost for a longer trip within the five boroughs of New York City. Therefore, it is evident that riders to New Jersey are charged rates that are not commensurate with that of riders who stay in New York City, creating an unfair circumstance.
Furthermore, a reduction in taxi fare for riders from New York City to New Jersey makes rides more accessible, offering many benefits such as increased commerce in New York City, reduced driving while intoxicated and raised revenue through toll collection to New Jersey. Also, drivers would not lose money, as additional riders would utilize this service, thereby allowing for more income.
In closing, please note that this issue is one of importance to my constituents, as we continue to share an economy with New York City.
I look forward to your response. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Ruben J. Ramos, Jr.
Assemblyman
Cc: Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, The City of New York