NY Governor Hochul plans to implement new tolls to enter Midtown and Lower Manhattan, potentially starting in January.
New York is on the verge of implementing a groundbreaking congestion pricing program aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Manhattan and generating funds for public transportation. Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the revival of the tolling plan, which was previously put on hold due to concerns about its impact on the city’s recovery from the pandemic. The program is set to be rolled out as early as January.
Under the new plan, drivers entering the most congested parts of Manhattan will be required to pay a toll. However, the revised program includes a 40 percent toll reduction for all types of vehicles and off-peak travel, offering a significant break for drivers. The peak toll for most passenger cars will be reduced to $9 from the initial $15.
The toll revenue generated from the congestion pricing program will be allocated to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (M.T.A.) to fund critical repairs and upgrades to New York City’s transit network. The M.T.A. oversees the city’s subway, buses, and commuter rail lines.
The implementation of the revised congestion pricing plan is being expedited, with a presentation scheduled to take place before the M.T.A. board for approval in the coming week. This move is in response to the impending threat of the program being scrapped by President-elect Donald J. Trump once he assumes office.
Overall, the congestion pricing program is poised to bring about significant changes to New York City’s transportation landscape, with the dual goals of alleviating traffic congestion and enhancing the efficiency of the public transit system.
Source: The NY Times
