The nation’s first congestion toll scheme bites the dust – for now
By
Peter Murphy
|
June 7th, 2024
New York State’s Governor, Kathy Hochul, this week decided to delay “indefinitely” the plan to impose congestion tolls in New York City, specifically slated for the lower half of Manhattan, from 60th Street south to Battery Park.
This upcoming toll system would have been the nation’s first “congestion” barrier to require payment for traveling by vehicle to enter a specific pre-existing public space, not to finance a new bridge, tunnel, or highway. The toll revenue was estimated to generate $1 billion yearly, which would have been used to finance up to $15 billion in new debt for capital improvements to the city’s subway system and regional commuter railroads.
Alas, it was not to be — for the moment.
New Yorkers, along with commuters from New Jersey across the river and from nearby Connecticut, would have paid $15 for entering the congestion zone. Drivers of small and large trucks would have paid $25 and $35. The ripple effect of these new costs would be felt beyond the congestion tolls, with cab and Uber riders paying a surcharge, along with higher prices for every delivery of pizza or UPS package and every contractor fixing a residence or office.
https://www.cfact.org/2024/06/07/the-nations-first-congestion-toll-scheme-bites-the-dust-for-now/
