The city of New York is preparing to enact what could be the nation’s first downtown congestion charge, reflecting successful programs in some of the largest cities in the world. The program could cost drivers up to $23 per vehicle to reach the busiest parts of Manhattanalthough the proposal has been rejected and may face a legal challenge.
When does this new rule come into effect?
The New York Times reports that the program was approved Monday by the Federal Highway Administration, preparing it for implementation beginning in spring 2024. Under one proposal, drivers could be charged $17 during off-peak hours or $23 during rush hour to enter Manhattan south of 60th Street, one of the world’s most congested highway systems.
Los Angeles is one of the busiest cities in the United States. Credit: Pedro Marroquin | Unsplash
Fares, along with discounts and exemptions, would be determined by the program’s beneficiary, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the city’s buses, subways and commuter rail.
Where will the money raised go?
Congestion pricing is intended to reduce traffic and pollution while financing city transit for an estimated $1 billion annually. According to reports, the money would be invested in MTA facilities, such as elevators in subway stations to improve accessibility and more modern signage to facilitate operations. It would also be invested in neighborhoods that could experience increased traffic as a result, for example, with better air filtration in schools. However, it would not be used to cover the MTA’s operating costs.
Other cities in the world have implemented this technique
Similar congestion charges have proven effective in some of the largest cities in the world, such as London and Singapore. NYC has been considering congestion charges since 2007, when they were proposed by then-Mayor Bloomberg, though they failed in the state legislature. They have been praised as more equitable by unspecified “experts” according to the NYT, but have also been opposed by industries and out-of-town travelers.
High traffic on the streets leads to more environmental pollutionCredit: Pexels
Opponents of the congestion charge
Opponents include taxi drivers and ride-sharing companies, due to a projected 17% reduction in demand for its services. Los suburban residents outside the cityincluding the commuters from new jerseyThey also expressed their dissatisfaction with the proposal. Some New Jersey politicians may also be preparing a lawsuit to avoid the congestion charging program.
However, exemptions have been floated, such as for travelers who have already paid Holland or Lincoln tunnel tolls, while discounts for low-income drivers and overnight visitors are also on the cards. Commercial drivers can also receive accommodation under the scheme. The MTA has reportedly proposed checking with small businesses within the toll zone to determine if congestion charges hurt them.
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2023-06-28 16:44:19
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