Congestion pricing has already had a significant impact on New York City, with drivers desperate to find parking spots above 60th Street. The plan, which went into effect over a week ago, has led to a battle for parking spots, with commuters taking up all available spaces and creating more traffic.
Residents in the Upper West Side neighborhood say that drivers are arguing and bickering over spots, with some people from New Jersey taking up multiple spots. Waddit Cruz, a doorman, described the scene as “war-like,” while elevator mechanic Richard Coleman witnessed drivers fighting for parking spots.
Francesca Layana, who lives in Washington Heights, reported seeing more congestion, traffic, and buses on her morning commute due to congestion pricing. The MTA estimates that 219,000 fewer vehicles are entering the city each week, but the added traffic is having a residual impact on the area.
The core focus of congestion pricing has been on Manhattan’s central business district, but its effects are being felt in surrounding neighborhoods like the Upper West Side. As drivers struggle to find parking spots, residents are warning of a worsening traffic problem.
Source: https://abc7ny.com/post/nyc-congestion-pricing-installed-plan-causing-battle-parking-among-city-state-drivers-residential-neighborhoods/15799804