MTA Approves Revised Congestion Pricing Plan for Manhattan

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) board has officially approved a revised congestion pricing plan for New York City, set to impose a toll of $9 on drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street, effective from January 5, 2024. This decision follows the plan’s reinstatement after being paused by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who supports the fees as crucial for funding upgrades to the city’s subway and bus systems.

«It’s economically essential that we have this lifeblood of New York City fully functioning, not just for the next couple of years, but for decades too,» Governor Hochul stated. The initial proposal, which suggested a $15 toll, was halted in June due to concerns over affordability. Even with the reduced fee, residents in areas like Queens have expressed that the $9 toll remains burdensome.

Assembly Member David Weprin voiced opposition, highlighting the financial strain on New Yorkers, particularly those from regions with inadequate public transportation links. «Nine dollars is a lot more than the current rate, which is zero. New Yorkers cannot afford the imposition of this latest financial burden,» he said.

Some local businesses fear the economic repercussions of the new toll, as noted by Weprin, who warned that it could result in closures or increased costs passed on to consumers. «The financial burdens associated with congestion pricing will shut down businesses across New York City,» he explained. The revised plan also faces several legal challenges, with nine lawsuits currently filed, including a federal suit citing an incomplete environmental review.

The congestion pricing zone will affect local roads and avenues at or below 60th Street, sparing through traffic on the FDR Drive and West Side Highway. Most vehicles will incur a $9 fee, which supplements existing bridge and tunnel tolls. Governor Hochul has stated that the rate will remain steady for at least three years.

The pricing structure includes variations based on vehicle size, with trucks paying $14.40 to $21.60 during peak times. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft will add a $1.50 surcharge per ride, while taxis will apply a $0.75 fee. Proposed discounts up to $3 will be available for passenger vehicles entering through Manhattan tunnels during peak hours.

The highest toll rates will be charged from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends, with drastic reductions outside these periods. Collection will primarily occur via E-ZPass, although non-users will receive mailed invoices at a higher rate.

Exemptions are planned for emergency vehicles, certain city service vehicles, and buses that run regular public routes. Discounts and tax credits will be available for low-income drivers and those carrying disabled passengers.

The congestion pricing strategy, similar to systems in cities like London and Singapore, aims to reduce vehicular traffic and pollution, while generating revenue for public transportation enhancements. Officials maintain that despite the reduced toll, expected revenues should sufficiently support the proposed transit improvements. However, the revenue realization could take longer compared to the original $1 billion yearly projection.