New York’s congestion pricing plan is set to take effect on Sunday, despite years of bureaucratic and legal roadblocks. The goal of this plan is to reduce gridlock and pollution in the busiest part of Manhattan while raising revenue for public transit.
Here are key things to know if you’re driving to Manhattan after January 5:
* The toll applies to south of Central Park, with varying prices depending on time and E-ZPass status.
+ Peak hours ( weekdays 5 a.m. – 9 p.m., weekends 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.) cost $9 or $13.50 for non-E-ZPass drivers.
+ Overnight hours cost $2.25 or $3.30 for non-E-ZPass drivers.
* Motorcyclists pay half the peak toll, while bus and truck drivers are charged more based on size.
* Exceptions include emergency vehicles, school buses, people with disabilities, and low-income drivers who can get a 50% discount.
The plan aims to reduce air pollution and encourage public transportation use. While some critics argue it’s too expensive, proponents say it will help fund the subway, bus, and commuter rail network.
New York City has implemented congestion pricing in other cities like London, Stockholm, Milan, and Singapore, but this is its first attempt in a US city. The plan was initially proposed by former Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2007 but stalled due to opposition and legal challenges. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the revised plan with a lower toll fee in November, just before President-elect Donald Trump vowed to stop it.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/new-york-congestion-tolls-123ad0724cddfd061fb3e5a573d8417a