A congestion pricing scanner is shown above the north-bound side of Broadway, between West 60th and 61st St. in Manhattan, Thursday, November 2, 2023
© Kevin R. Wexler / USA TODAY NETWORK
(New York, NY) – Governor Kathy Hochul says she won’t permit the MTA to “surge” pricing higher for congestion pricing, on so-called “gridlock alert days.” This was something floated recently as a possibility, as the law enacting congestion pricing does grant the MTA that ability. For now, the standard base fare is $9 per day for driving below 60th Street.
Peak and off-peak fares do apply, and trucks can be charged more. Also, there are some discounts and exemptions. But Hochul says there won’t be “surge” pricing in addition to the toll. New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer cheered Hochul’s decision on no “surge.”
Congestion pricing is set to begin January 5, 2025. There are several lawsuits that aim to stop it, but to date that hasn’t happened. One lawsuit was dismissed by a New York judge last week, clearing a roadblock for the MTA. Officials with the transit agency say they will use the revenue generated by congestion pricing to pay for subway upgrades and other capital projects.
By some estimates, congestion pricing could bring in an additional $1 billion in revenue for the MTA. Its opponents note prices will rise for consumer goods in Manhattan as a result. And others say the plan will shift pollution from Manhattan to New Jersey, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
