In a move that reaffirms New York’s dedication to its prestigious sporting events, the state’s governor, Kathy Hochul, has made a significant ruling on financial issues impacting the world-renowned New York City Marathon.
On Thursday, Governor Hochul instructed the state’s transit authority to halt plans to levy a $750,000 charge on the marathon for its use of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, a pivotal part of the marathon’s route. The Marathon, held annually on the first Sunday of November, is a beloved institution revered as a testament to the endurance and willpower of New Yorkers and international athletes.
As she announced the directive, the Democratic governor also proposed an innovative solution to the transit agency’s financial concerns. She suggested having the New York Road Runners, the organizational muscle behind the marathon, invest in advertising on public transport to generate the much-needed revenue for mass transit.
Speaking to the importance of the marathon, Governor Hochul stated, “The marathon is an iconic symbol of New York City’s tenacity and resilience that unites communities across the five boroughs each fall.” She emphasized the importance of rectifying the financial situation, urging the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to “fix this mess and allow the marathon to move forward as it always has.”
Governed by the MTA, the New York bridges and tunnels are a vital infrastructure to the marathon. When approached for a comment about the governor’s directive, the MTA remained silent. On the other hand, the Road Runners expressed gratitude, appreciating the support from the governor.
The MTA had earlier justified the proposed fee as a way to recoup the estimated toll revenue loss when the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge – the nation’s longest suspension bridge – is closed for the 26.2-mile race. This race holds the title for being the world’s largest marathon, drawing over 50,000 participants each year.
However, the Road Runners have countered these financial concerns. The organization notes that, during the marathon week, public transits see a surge in ridership, which they argue, “more than makes up” for any loss in toll revenue from the bridge closure. Furthermore, the bridge fee would have been an additional burden as the race already pays the MTA to cover overtime costs for transit staff, totalling last year to a hefty amount of $150,000.
This standoff over finances lends an unusual narrative to the otherwise jubilant tale of this marathon which proudly symbolizes unity, resilience and the can-do spirit of New York City, wrapping the picturesque boroughs of Brooklyn and Staten Island together.
