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Starting January 1, 2026, drivers on the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway will face a 3% toll increase. This hike, approved by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, is part of their 2026 budget plan and aims to cover operating costs, maintenance, debt service, and reserve funds. The increase is expected to generate over $2.3 billion in revenue towards the authority's $2.8 billion budget.
The toll adjustment aligns with an annual process called indexing, which adjusts rates based on inflation and revenue needs for capital improvements. According to Courier-Post, the average toll on the turnpike will rise by 16 cents, while the Garden State Parkway will see an increase of 8 cents at barrier plazas and 3 cents at most entry and exit points.
The National Motorists Association has urged Governor Phil Murphy to veto the toll increase, suggesting that Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill should decide on the matter once she takes office. They argue for fairer and more transparent toll-setting practices in the future, as reported by PIX11.
The toll hike is not the only change for New Jersey drivers. Motorists crossing the Delaware River into Pennsylvania will also face new toll rates on bridges owned by the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission, though the exact date for these changes is yet to be confirmed.
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