How Much Money Does the George Washington Bridge Make a Day?
Understand the daily financial contributions of the George Washington Bridge, from its revenue generation mechanisms to its broader impact on regional infrastructure.
Connecting Fort Lee, New Jersey, with Manhattan’s Washington Heights, the George Washington Bridge is a double-decked suspension bridge. It serves as a vital transportation artery for millions of commuters and commercial vehicles, and is one of the world’s busiest motor vehicle bridges. Owned and operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, it is a key part of the regional transportation network.
Daily Revenue from Tolls
The primary source of revenue for the George Washington Bridge is tolls, collected exclusively from eastbound traffic heading into New York. In 2023, the bridge generated approximately $899 million in tolls, averaging about $2.46 million daily.
Toll rates vary based on payment method, vehicle class, and time of day. As of July 6, 2025, a Class 1 passenger vehicle using E-ZPass during peak hours pays $16.06, while off-peak travel costs $14.06. For those paying through Tolls by Mail, the rate for a Class 1 vehicle is $22.38, reflecting increased administrative costs. Since 2020, the bridge has operated with 100% cashless tolling.
Elements Affecting Revenue
Several factors influence the daily revenue generated by the George Washington Bridge, with traffic volume being a primary determinant. The number of vehicles crossing, which can exceed 300,000 daily, impacts toll collection. Commuter patterns, holiday travel, and broader economic conditions affect these daily traffic counts. Toll rates are subject to periodic adjustments by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, often including annual inflation-based increases. For instance, the Port Authority has approved incremental increases, such as an additional $0.25 for autos and trucks, set to take effect annually from 2025 through 2028.
The method of payment also plays a role in net revenue, influencing administrative overhead. E-ZPass users benefit from lower toll rates compared to those paying via Tolls by Mail. The higher Tolls by Mail rate accounts for the additional processing required. The Port Authority encourages E-ZPass adoption to enhance efficiency and reduce administrative burdens. External factors, like congestion pricing initiatives in New York City, could influence traffic volumes on the George Washington Bridge and its toll revenue.
How Toll Revenue is Used
Toll revenue collected from the George Washington Bridge funds its ongoing operation and maintenance. A portion of the funds is allocated to upkeep, repairs, and daily operational expenses specific to the bridge. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is undertaking the “Restoring the George” program, a $2 billion investment to rehabilitate and upgrade bridge components, with completion anticipated by 2030. This program includes projects such as replacing hundreds of original suspender ropes supporting the bridge decks.
Beyond the bridge, revenue contributes to the broader Port Authority budget, funding other infrastructure projects across its network. This includes investments in major airports like JFK and Newark Liberty, as well as other tunnels, bridges, bus terminals, and the PATH rail system. Toll revenue also helps service debt incurred for past and ongoing infrastructure development. The Port Authority operates as a self-funded agency, supporting its operations and capital improvements without tax revenue from New York or New Jersey.