New York's Transit Agency Approves $9 Congestion Pricing Toll

New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has approved a revised congestion pricing plan, reducing the base toll to $9 from the initially proposed $15. The 12-1 vote by the MTA board on Monday, November 18, 2024, OKs the plan to start on January 5, 2025, pending federal approval.

Governor Kathy Hochul, who put the plan on "pause" in June, addressed a path forward last week on how to fund the MTA with a lower fee congestion toll. She explained that the reduced-price plan still allows ample funding for the cash-strapped MTA, generating $15 billion over time to support the current Capital Program.

The new $9 congestion pricing toll is expected to reduce the number of vehicles entering Manhattan's Central Business District (CBD) by 17%, equating to 153,000 fewer cars daily. This reduction will help alleviate traffic congestion, improving the quality of life for residents and pedestrians, and enhancing access for emergency vehicles. Moreover, the decrease in vehicle emissions will contribute to cleaner air, benefiting the environment and public health.

Lower-income communities will not only benefit from improved public transit service but also from cleaner air. Hochul directed the MTA to make major enhancements to at least 23 bus routes in the outer boroughs. The negative effects of traffic can be seen everywhere, and New Yorkers want cleaner air, safer streets, and a transit system that works for them, according to MTA head Janno Lieber.

The new price came after supporters of the plan indicated they would be willing to negotiate on what the toll would cost, as long as it meant the plan got off the ground. Mayor Eric Adams backs the governor and has said he's "with the governor on congestion pricing." However, Adams has asked for new exemptions for first responders and transit workers.

Not everyone is on board with the congestion pricing plan. Many claim it's a money grab at the public's expense. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has long been a vocal opponent of the plan, saying New Jersey was not "meaningfully" consulted on the plan that, he says, will impact New Jerseyans who commute to New York.

The MTA plans to allocate the expected revenue from the reduced congestion pricing toll to fund various projects aimed at improving public transit and reducing congestion. The $15 billion generated over time will be used to modernize subway signals, expand the Second Avenue Subway line, add electric buses, and install elevators for accessibility. Additionally, the plan includes major enhancements to at least 23 bus routes in the outer boroughs, benefiting lower-income communities with cleaner air and improved public transit service.

The revised congestion pricing plan for drivers entering Manhattan is expected to have a significant impact on traffic congestion and air quality, benefiting both residents and the environment. As the plan moves forward, it is essential to monitor and evaluate its success in achieving its goals and addressing potential concerns from residents and commuters.