For Immediate Release: December 14, 2006

THRUWAY AUTHORITY ANNOUNCES THRUWAY CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY CLOSED

The New York State Thruway Authority today announced that the Thruway Customer Satisfaction Survey, previously available online for the first time since the end of September, has been closed.

“In the past, the Thruway Customer Satisfaction Survey has been an essential tool in helping the Authority to improve service to its customers,” said Thruway Authority Executive Director Michael R. Fleischer. “Since the end of September, the Authority has been asking its customers to rate Thruway services and facilities.  Staff will now begin compiling and analyzing the results of the survey in an attempt to improve conditions and services provided along the highway.”

The Authority is currently compiling customer feedback and hopes to have its analysis complete by early Spring.

The 2006 Survey asked customers to rate their satisfaction with E-ZPass, recent E-ZPass improvements including lane markings, additional signage, and new 20 mile per hour lanes, roadway conditions, customer services including Travel Plazas services and roadside assistance, the efficiency and professionalism of toll collectors and other staff, and customer services including Highway Advisory Radio (HAR), Dynamic Message Signs (DMS), the website, 1-800-THRUWAY and the Tappan Zee Bridge web cameras, among other things.

The survey is an opportunity for the Authority to continue to provide more enhanced customer service to its customers. With many initiatives available to Thruway customers via the website, including the newly available email traffic alerts, the Authority is looking to tailor new programs to better fit the needs of motorists.

Previous customer surveys resulted in efforts to increase the numbers of E-ZPass lanes, improve signage and enhance traveler information efforts, all of which are currently being implemented.

In order to continue its commitment to customer service, the Authority has routinely administered these surveys every two years since 1998.

The Authority appreciates its customers’ participation in the survey program; however, while the official survey period has ended, customers are invited to provide the Authority with feedback at anytime via email at customer_service@thruway.state.ny.us, by writing to the New York State Thruway Authority, 200 Southern Blvd, PO Box 189, Albany, New York, 12201-0189, or by calling 1-877-901-2700.

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