Hooray for Kathy Hochul for stopping the MTA’s attempt to delay the NYC Marathon

Gov. Hochul made the right call by stopping the MTA from charging the New York Road Runners club $750,000 to close the Verrazano Bridge for the New York Marathon.

She stated, “I’ve directed the MTA to fix this mess and allow the marathon to move forward as it always has,” in an interview with The Post.

The MTA was focused on the toll revenue it loses while the bridge is closed, but failed to consider the over $1 million it gains from increased subway ridership on race day. The Marathon is a significant event for the city, attracting runners from around the world and boosting the economy by over $425 million.

Since 2006, the Marathon has raised $520 million for charity. The NYRR had already been paying $100,000 for the bridge closure and agreed to double that amount this year, yet the MTA demanded the full $750,000 or threatened to limit the race route.

Amidst the upcoming congestion pricing tolls and the MTA’s financial struggles, the decision to block the Marathon was widely criticized. Despite the NYRR club’s non-profit status, it contributes to charity and the city as a whole.

Hochul praised the Marathon as a symbol of the city’s resilience and unity, underscoring its importance to New Yorkers.

Thanks to Hochul’s quick intervention, the ill-advised plan was put to rest.