Former President Donald Trump’s win to return to office raises concerns about the financial future of New York City’s largest mass transit system, the MTA. As Trump vowed to “terminate congestion pricing” in his first week back in office, transit watchdogs warn that time is running out for Governor Kathy Hochul to salvage the tolling program.
Hochul paused congestion pricing indefinitely in June, citing concerns about undue strain on motorists. The program, designed to reduce traffic and fund billions of dollars in MTA capital improvements, would have generated billions of dollars. Advocates say the governor must act sooner rather than later to avoid a worst-case scenario.
The pause has led to significant delays and funding shortfalls for the MTA. Nearly half of the new five-year capital program’s funding is uncertain, putting pressure on the agency to make hard choices. With Trump’s win likely resulting in less federal funding for public transit, the MTA faces its latest crisis.
“We will make the case in Washington,” said Janno Lieber, MTA head, adding that the agency would focus on finding a way forward on funding. However, advocates fear securing new federal funding will be challenging under Trump’s administration.
Source: https://www.thecity.nyc/2024/11/06/congestion-pricing-now-or-never-trump-win