New York City has become the first US city to implement a congestion pricing plan, charging drivers who enter certain areas of Manhattan with a toll. The 60th Street-and-south zone, which started on Saturday, aims to reduce traffic and generate billions for transit improvements.
The MTA’s new system uses over 1,400 license plate scanners to track and charge vehicles that enter the zone. Motorists have reported difficulty navigating the area and some have even spun their wheels in an attempt to avoid paying the toll. The $9 peak-hour toll will apply from Monday to Friday, while overnight rates for all drivers are reduced to $2.25.
MTA officials hope the congestion pricing plan will encourage drivers to switch to public transportation or use alternative modes of transportation. The revenue generated by the system is tied to over $15 billion in improvements for the transit system.
While some motorists have expressed frustration with the new tolls, MTA Chairperson Janno Lieber remains confident that the system will be successful. He notes that 90% of drivers who commute to Manhattan use mass transit, and he believes the congestion pricing plan will help alleviate traffic congestion without penalizing those who rely on public transportation.
As the city continues to implement its new congestion pricing plan, residents are cautiously optimistic about the potential benefits for their community. With over $50 billion in planned capital improvements, including modernizing subway signals and adding elevators to train stations, the MTA is committed to improving the transit system for years to come.
Source: https://www.thecity.nyc/2025/01/06/congestion-pricing-begins-money-manhattan