New York City’s congestion pricing program, which began on January 5, is showing positive results six months into its implementation. Governor Kathy Hochul said that the program has made life in New York better by reducing traffic, increasing business and revenue, and improving public transportation.
The MTA reports that the program has generated over $219 million in revenue so far this year, with a goal of reaching $500 million. The number of cars on the streets in the congestion relief zone has decreased by 67,000 per day since the program launched. Subway ridership is also up 7% from January to May compared to the same period in 2024.
Business is booming in the area, with Broadway posting its “biggest season ever” with $1.9 billion in ticket sales. However, not everyone is convinced that the program is working as intended. Some New Yorkers believe it’s a money-making scheme, while others think it hasn’t done much to reduce traffic outside of the toll zone.
Despite these mixed reviews, officials and advocates say that congestion pricing is having a positive impact on the city. Janno Lieber, CEO of the MTA, said that the program is achieving all its goals in terms of traffic reduction, increased travel speeds, safety, noise reduction, and more. Danny Pearlstein, policy and communications director at the Riders Alliance, also praised the program’s environmental benefits and its ability to fund transit improvements.
However, some New Yorkers have raised concerns about the program’s impact on their daily commutes. Filippa Grisafi, an express bus advocate, said that her commute times have increased due to longer wait times for buses. An MTA bus driver also expressed concerns about double parking and bike lanes causing traffic congestion in Manhattan.
Despite these challenges, Hochul remains committed to the program, saying that it’s a “huge success” and that New York is proving that government can work for the people. The governor vows to continue fighting in court to keep the program alive, despite attempts by President Donald Trump’s administration to unwind it.
Source: https://www.amny.com/news/hochul-congestion-pricing-success-six-months