In a dramatic turn of events, participants of the Five Boro Bike Tour have expressed their frustration and anger towards the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) over the recent reports of potential toll charges for the famous cycling event. The MTA previously proposed charging the New York City Marathon for tolls lost during the bridge shutdown, leading to public outcry and intervention by Governor Kathy Hochul. However, it seems the same promise of reprieve has not been extended to the bike tour.

Cyclists, many of whom are dedicated participants of the tour, voiced their concerns about the financial implications and the potential negative impact on participation. One cyclist, Bob Sweeney, a retired firefighter from Queens, criticized the MTA, saying they are "out of their mind" for considering toll charges and congestion pricing. He suggested that lowering the price of participation could encourage more people to take part in the event.

Glenna Hamilton, an office manager from Queens, echoed similar sentiments, stating that a potential cost increase resulting from toll charges would discourage her and other cyclists from participating. She questioned the need to pay a high fee for an event when the alternative of cycling in a park is available at no cost.

Kenneth Podziba, the CEO of Bike New York, the organization behind the tour, expressed his concerns about the MTA potentially imposing a massive toll bill on the tour, similar to the estimated $750,000 billed to the marathon. Podziba emphasized that the MTA has not provided any concrete evidence of lost revenue due to the bike tour and called for Governor Hochul to address and resolve this issue.

The MTA, already embroiled in controversy over congestion pricing, did not provide any updates on their plans regarding toll charges for the Five Boro Bike Tour. Spokesperson Aaron Donovan only mentioned that Bike New York would reimburse the MTA for expenses at the same rate as in 2023, without clarifying the possibility of future toll charges.

The Verrazzano Bridge, an integral part of the tour, holds significance for many riders who appreciate the opportunity to traverse all five boroughs of New York City. Cyclists highlighted the open streets, the absence of cars, and the unique experience of crossing the Verrazzano as reasons why they participate. They emphasized that removing the bridge or drastically increasing costs could deter them from returning to the tour.

The future of the tour remains uncertain, with participants worried about potential changes if toll charges are imposed. Cyclists expressed hope that next year's event will not be compromised by eliminating the Verrazzano portion, resulting in a less captivating experience.

As public outcry grows and cyclists stand united against the MTA's reported threats of toll charges, it remains to be seen whether Governor Hochul or the MTA will take action to resolve the concerns raised by the Five Boro Bike Tour participants.