I think it's not the parochial NY/NJ competition but even more so: getting into Manhattan (AM) - from Jersey, Yonkers, the Island, whatever - vs leaving (PM). If I recall the tollbooths correctly (pay to get in, sail right through going home), it means relief during the evening rush hour -- one less delay on the trip home, when everyone is more tired, and more hu/arried, and more impatient...At least that's the rationalization for the direction of the unilateral toll gates I've always accepted. Maybe I'm naive.

Alternatives?