New York Governor Kathy Hochul has decided not to impose a 25% surcharge on the base congestion pricing fee of $9 during Gridlock Alert days, despite initially reserving the right to do so. The move is aimed at reducing traffic in Manhattan and funding long-overdue investments in public transit.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) had previously stated that it would charge an extra 25% on city-designated Gridlock Alert days, which are typically the most congested days of the year. However, Governor Hochul has now notified the MTA that this contingency plan is no longer valid.
Hochul made the announcement in April, stating that she had fought to reduce the congestion pricing toll by 40% and intended to keep costs lower for New Yorkers who drive into the city. The decision was made after speaking with the MTA and making it clear that such a surcharge would not be allowed.
Source: https://abc7ny.com/post/congestion-pricing-nyc-gridlock-alert-surcharge-gov-kathy-hochul-decides/15711108