The New York City Marathon organizers are currently embroiled in a dispute with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) over a proposed bridge toll for the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. The MTA is demanding that the New York Road Runners, the group behind the iconic race, pay approximately $750,000 for the use of the bridge on Marathon Sunday.
The MTA argues that this fee is necessary to compensate for the estimated toll revenue lost when the bridge is closed for the event. However, the Road Runners have contested this claim, pointing out that the increased transit ridership during marathon week results in greater revenue for the MTA.
In response to the MTA's demand, the Road Runners have highlighted the significant economic impact of the marathon on the city. A commissioned economic impact report revealed that the 2019 marathon generated an estimated $427 million for New York City, boosting tourism, tax revenues, and the overall economy.
The organization has expressed concerns that complying with the toll requirement would lead to increased costs for runners, potentially making the event less accessible for both local and international participants. They have requested data from the MTA to support their claim of lost revenue and have emphasized the value that the marathon brings to the city and state.
While the MTA has threatened to restrict the marathon to using only one deck of the bridge if the toll is not paid, the Road Runners have warned that such a move would significantly impact the race. With over 50,000 participants annually, the New York City Marathon is the largest in the world, and any restrictions could force the organization to reduce the field of runners or extend the duration of the event.
Both parties have expressed a willingness to negotiate and find a compromise that takes into account the interests of all stakeholders. The MTA has indicated that any resolution should ultimately lead to full reimbursement for the alleged lost toll revenue, while the Road Runners are seeking a solution that recognizes the value of the marathon to the city and its residents.
