TONAWANDA, N.Y. -- From far away, the blue arches are a sign you're about to cross onto Grand Island. But close up, you've got to pay the bridge toll to get in.
"Over the 30 years we've lived on Grand Island, we've been stuck in so many traffic jams because of the narrowing to the toll booths and then leaving the toll booths. There's no reason in this day and age to have toll booths," said Grand Island resident Frank Posatier.
Officials like Town Supervisor Nathan McMurray agree. He says the state hasn't responded in any real way to requests to either remove the tolls or make them cashless.
On Thursday, the group WNY for Grand Island Toll Barrier Removal held a meeting highlighting the bridges' environmental impacts.
"What kind of pollutants are we exposed to? What kind of toxins are we breathing in and bringing home to our families at night? There's a lot here at stake, more than what I think some people realize," said advocate Brian Michel.
One researcher told the audience the strongest scientific evidence suggests exposure to auto emissions can lead to childhood asthma, abnormal lung development and aggravated allergies.
"Even after a little bit of exposure, like exercising, there's more signs of inflammation and more of those illness triggers within the body," said Rockefeller University Heilbrunn Nurse Scholar Jessica Castner.
While the impacts are mainly seen by people who live within 500 meters of major roadways, panelists said removing tolls and keeping traffic moving could help make the air in this area healthier overall.
Organizers say they're hoping more members of the public get involved — signing a petition to improve the toll system, for example.
They also called on the Thruway Authority and Governor's Office to meet with them to discuss taking the first steps toward change.