On the occasion of the 500th anniversary of Italian explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano’s arrival in New York Bay, a proposal has been put forth by New York congressman to have a toll-free day on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge this Wednesday to commemorate the historical event of Verrazzano’s first entry into the region on April 17, 1524.
The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, operational since 1964, has become a key transportation hub connecting Brooklyn and Staten Island in New York City. Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis has called on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to waive tolls on the bridge on April 17 in honor of Verrazzano.
Malliotakis stated that Verrazzano would be displeased if he knew MTA was profiting from his name, also pointing out the long-standing misspelling of the explorer’s surname by MTA.
In recent years, MTA has faced criticism for charging high tolls for events like the New York City Marathon. Governor Kathy Hochul has instructed MTA not to undermine the city’s iconic events and economic activities.
To celebrate this anniversary of the discovery, local Italian-American community leaders will hold a commemorative ceremony at Battery Park in Manhattan. John Calvelli, Executive Vice President of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), expressed support for the toll-free proposal and commended Congresswoman Malliotakis for her initiative.
Moreover, this Saturday, a street corner at Lily Pond Ave and Major Ave in Staten Island will be officially named after Verrazzano. Councilman David Carr will preside over the ceremony.
Responsibility Editor: Chen Wenzhi