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“Our Bridge, Our Future” By County Executive Ed Day

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7 years ago

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Photo by Tom Jersey

“Our Bridge, Our Future” By County Executive Ed Day

Last week the Thruway Authority announced the formation of a Toll Advisory Panel to review toll rates, potential resident and commuter discount programs and commercial vehicle rates over the Tappan Zee Bridge. I have expressed concern for how the new bridge will be funded for years now, stating that it cannot be done on the backs of Rockland residents who have very few viable options other than driving.

The cost for the new bridge must be shared by all, just as the revenue the old bridge generated for decades went to support the entire Thruway system. In fact, much of that toll revenue was wasted away in paying off the debt associated with the Thruway’s takeover of the Canal Authority decades ago. Those funds, had they not been used to plug the financial hole of another State Authority, could be used now to pay for this bridge and hold down tolls.

Rockland County residents must not be held financially responsible for the poor fiscal management of our State’s past, nor should they foot the bill for a project that should have been the Thruway Authority’s responsibility in the first place. What it comes down to is this; the Tappan Zee is not a regional bridge and should not be compared with city crossings like the George Washington Bridge. If anything, it should be compared to the only other bridge connecting Rockland and Westchester Counties; the Bear Mountain.

Let me be clear; any increased toll for the new bridge MUST include a significantly reduced toll rate for Rockland residents – a discount well beyond the discount that will be provided for all commuters via E-ZPass. With the looming congestion pricing proposal, Rocklanders will be doubly impacted by tolls without deep discounts or exemptions from those zone crossings – items for which I have also advocated.

I will be submitting these concerns and supporting information to the Panel and I invite you all to do the same by sharing your thoughts and opinions with them via email at: TollAdvisoryPanel@thruway.ny.gov

We need to make our voices heard; that is the only way to convince the Panel of the necessity of a significant resident discount plan. Putting obstacles like an expensive toll in the way of attracting people to Rockland County would have a wide-ranging negative economic impact. Rockland needs this bridge to remain affordable, so we can continue to build the bright future we all deserve.

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We’re Back: A Note to Our Readers After Website Updates

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3 weeks ago

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September 24, 2026

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To our readers, we apologize for our recent absence.

Our website underwent construction and technical updates, which temporarily prevented us from publishing and, unfortunately, from notifying our readers about the work ahead of time. We understand that the lack of communication may have been confusing, and we’re sorry for the inconvenience.

The good news is that we’re back online. Our team has completed the necessary work, and this page is once again available to our readers.

We appreciate your patience and understanding while we worked behind the scenes. Thank you for continuing to visit, read, and support our website.

Welcome back — and thank you for being here.

— The Editorial Team

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All American Pet Day Honors Beloved Pets and Shelter Animals Waiting for Homes

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3 months ago

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July 11, 2026

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A day to honor beloved pets while remembering the animals still waiting for homes like “Cookie”. Would someone please adopt her!

Pets have a special way of becoming part of the family. They greet us at the door, offer comfort on difficult days, bring joy through simple moments and remind us of the importance of kindness and companionship.

Today, on All American Pet Day, pet owners across the country are celebrating the dogs, cats and other animals that have become cherished members of their households. The observance is also an opportunity to recognize the countless animals in shelters that are still waiting for a place to call home.

Every year, shelters and rescue organizations care for animals in need of safety, medical attention and a second chance. Many of these pets are loving, loyal companions who simply have not yet found the right family. Some have been overlooked because of their age, size, breed, or because they may need extra patience and understanding after difficult experiences.

Shelter workers and volunteers often say that one of the most rewarding moments is watching an animal who has spent months or even years waiting finally walk out the door with a new family.

Adopting a pet is a commitment, but for those who are ready, it can be life-changing for both the animal and the adopter. Many shelters also offer opportunities to foster, volunteer, donate supplies or simply share information about animals looking for homes.

For those who already have pets, All American Pet Day is a reminder to celebrate the bond they share. A walk around the neighborhood, extra playtime, a favorite treat or a visit to the veterinarian are all ways to show appreciation for the animals who give so much unconditional love.

And for those considering adding a pet to their family, local shelters are filled with animals waiting for someone to see their potential.

Whether they have been with us for years or are still waiting behind a kennel door, every pet deserves compassion, care and a chance to be loved.

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