NEW YORK – Starting Sunday, drivers entering Manhattan’s bustling center are now subject to a new toll system, charging $9 during the busiest hours of the day. This initiative, referred to as congestion pricing, aims to alleviate the heavy traffic that plagues the city while also generating funds to improve the struggling public transit network.
Weekday tolls are enforced for vehicles entering lower Manhattan, south of Central Park, during peak times from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a similar schedule on weekends from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. For hours outside of these peak times, the toll will decrease to $2.25 for most vehicles.
After extensive studies and delays, as well as New Jersey’s last-minute efforts to halt the toll, the program rolled out smoothly on its opening day. However, transit officials have indicated that adjustments may be necessary, with a more accurate assessment expected when the workweek begins.
“This is a complex toll system that has not been tried before,” said Janno Lieber, Chair and CEO of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, during a press event at Grand Central Terminal. “We cannot expect a sudden change in behavior from New Yorkers; adjustments need to be made by everyone.”
The toll—which varies for different types of vehicles, including motorcycles, trucks, and ride-sharing services—will be monitored via electronic systems set up at over 100 detection points throughout Manhattan’s southern region. This new charge comes in addition to existing fees that drivers incur when crossing various bridges and tunnels into the city. Nonetheless, individuals who have already paid tolls via specific tunnels during peak hours can receive a credit of up to $3.
On the initial morning post-implementation, traffic appeared to flow well along the northern boundary of the congestion zone, specifically at the intersection of 60th Street and 2nd Avenue. Many drivers seemed oblivious to the newly deployed cameras overseeing the area, which will soon trigger charges to their E-Z Pass.
“Are you serious?” exclaimed Chris Smith, a realtor from Somerville, New Jersey, while he was navigating against traffic beneath the surveillance cameras to avoid the toll. “This idea is ridiculous! Who thought this was smart? Kathy Hochul? She should be held accountable!”
Amidst the skepticism, several local residents and transit users expressed optimism that the toll would help reduce congestion and improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods while facilitating upgrades to the subway system.
“I think the goal is a positive step towards decreasing traffic and encouraging public transit usage,” commented Phil Bauer, a Manhattan-based surgeon, who described the incessant traffic noise in his area as “extremely bothersome.”
Although President-elect Donald Trump has expressed intentions to abolish the program once in office, the success of such an effort remains uncertain. During his first term, the plan was hindered by a requirement for a federal environmental review.
In recent remarks, Trump described congestion pricing as detrimental to New York City’s competitive edge, claiming it could drive businesses away. Lieber, however, expressed little concern over the potential of the president-elect dismantling the program. “I believe he recognizes the impact of traffic on the city as a resident of 59th and 5th Avenue,” Lieber added.
Globally, cities like London and Stockholm have implemented similar congestion pricing models, but this initiative marks the first of its kind within the United States. Supporters argue that while initial public reception to these schemes is often tepid, approval tends to increase as residents experience benefits like smoother traffic and quicker bus routes.
Even among transit riders in New York City, doubts remain regarding whether the funds generated will be effectively utilized for subway enhancements.
“I’m hesitant to believe in the MTA’s capability to manage funds based on their past allocations,” shared Christakis Charalambides, a fashion industry supervisor waiting for his subway in Lower Manhattan. “I need to see tangible results before I buy into the idea.”
Originally, congestion pricing was set to launch last year at a rate of $15, but Governor Kathy Hochul unexpectedly paused the rollout ahead of the 2024 elections, considering suburban congressional races vital to her party’s ambitions.
Shortly after the elections, Hochul reintroduced the plan with a reduced toll of $9, stating that the initial amount felt excessive, despite her previous strong support for the initiative before its delay.
The congestion pricing plan has successfully withstood multiple lawsuits aimed at blocking it, including a last-minute legal effort from New Jersey to halt implementation. New Jersey’s Governor, Phil Murphy, has vowed to continue opposing the program.
In response, Lieber accused Murphy of hypocrisy and expressed confidence that New Jersey would eventually have to amend its strategies following a series of legal defeats.
