The US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced Wednesday that the federal government will halt a congestion pricing toll in New York City. The toll, launched on January 5, imposed a $9 fee on most vehicles entering Manhattan neighborhoods south of Central Park. It aimed to reduce traffic and fund mass transit by making driving into Manhattan more expensive.
The toll’s financial burden was cited as a reason for its halt, with the administration calling it “a slap in the face to working class Americans and small business owners.” The Federal Highway Administration will work with the state to terminate the tolls.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has vowed to continue the program despite the halt. She has stated that the lawsuit filed by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority will determine its future.
President Donald Trump had long opposed the plan, which was initially met with skepticism from some Democrats. However, Democratic leaders including Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey and Mayor Eric Adams of New York City have supported it.
The toll’s impact is expected to be significant, with plans to use revenue from tolls to fund billions of dollars in transit system improvements. The program has been criticized for its potential effect on suburban commuters and local businesses.
Environmental groups had hailed the toll as an innovative step to reduce air pollution and improve traffic flow. However, opponents argue that it will increase congestion and harm local communities.
As the situation unfolds, New York City’s residents and officials must navigate the implications of this decision and its impact on their daily lives.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/trump-halts-congestion-pricing-nyc-manhattan-35366190ccdb925d047bbbd862a1a226