New Jersey officials have asked a federal judge to delay or block the planned congestion pricing plan in New York City, which is set to begin on Sunday. The state had sued to stop the plan, arguing that it would cause “irreparable harm” due to increased traffic and air quality issues in New Jersey.
The plan, which was approved by federal transportation officials over a year ago, charges drivers to enter Manhattan’s busiest roadways. The tolls are expected to generate $15 billion for mass transit in the city and its suburbs. However, New Jersey officials claim that the revenue generated from the plan would largely benefit New York City, while causing significant environmental impacts on their state.
In a recent court filing, lawyers for New Jersey argued that without enforceable mitigation measures, traffic increases and attendant air quality issues will result from the congestion pricing scheme. The filing also stated that New Jersey had rejected “generous” incentives offered by New York to settle the lawsuit.
Despite this, experts argue that it would be a long shot for New Jersey to stop the plan. A federal judge, Leo M. Gordon, had previously criticized New Jersey’s representatives for warping a federal analysis of the tolling plan, noting that their characterization was incorrect.
The congestion pricing plan is part of a larger effort to reduce heat-trapping vehicle emissions and address climate change in New York City. Environmental leaders in New Jersey support the plan as a way to reduce emissions, but Governor Murphy’s decision to reject New York’s offers may have lost them significant revenue opportunities.
With widespread delays still common on public transportation in New Jersey, many see congestion pricing as an opportunity to improve public transportation options and reduce traffic fatalities. The increased tolls on highways in New Jersey are already taking effect this week.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/31/nyregion/congestion-pricing-new-york-new-jersey.html