NEW YORK — Governor Kathy Hochul of New York recently shared insights from her private discussion with President Donald Trump at the White House, emphasizing the importance and effectiveness of the congestion pricing tolls in New York City. Despite the positive outcomes, she anticipates that the ultimate decision regarding this program will be made in court.
Last week, Trump withdrew the federal support that was previously backing the initiative, which charges drivers a fee for entering specific areas of Manhattan. Hochul recognizes the challenge in changing Trump’s stance but insists that the decision about the tolls should be left to New York. In contrast, New Jersey’s Democratic Governor, Phil Murphy, is actively opposing the initiative in court and has appealed to Trump to abandon the program.
“With all due respect to the state of New Jersey, they do not dictate terms for New York, just as Washington cannot intrude on policies designed to alleviate congestion,” stated Hochul. She added that since the implementation of tolling in January, emergency response times have improved and air quality has become better. “I have solid arguments to support our position, and it’s essential that others refrain from questioning our decisions, as our state and legal systems dictate otherwise.”
When pressed about whether the future of the program will be determined through legal channels, Hochul confidently replied, “Absolutely, this matter will reach the courts. I firmly believe we will prevail legally, and the program will be upheld.” On Sunday, a request for comments was sent to the White House but went unanswered.
The Trump administration halted congestion pricing on Wednesday, which had launched on January 5, aiming to reduce traffic and generate funding for mass transit via a $9 toll for vehicles entering Manhattan below Central Park. According to transit officials, this toll has contributed to modest, yet noticeable decreases in traffic levels.
The president, who has properties, including his Trump Tower penthouse, within the congestion zone, pledged to dismantle the plan as soon as he assumed office. Following the Transportation Department’s announcement, he expressed satisfaction with the outcome on his social media platform, Truth Social.
During their Friday meeting that lasted over an hour in the Oval Office, Hochul showcased a booklet highlighting the early achievements of congestion pricing. Their conversation also touched on various topics such as immigration, infrastructure, economic growth, energy, offshore wind, and nuclear energy, according to Hochul’s press secretary, Avi Small.
While Hochul expressed that she sees potential areas for collaboration between herself and Trump, they did not address the situation involving New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Recently, a federal judge canceled the mayor’s corruption trial but appointed counsel to evaluate the Justice Department’s contentious request to dismiss charges against him. Hochul criticized the administration for appearing to “hold the city hostage” and attempted to create “chaos” through its involvement in the Adams case.
