New York City’s congestion pricing program raked in $159 million during its first quarter of operation, even as the Trump administration moves aggressively to dismantle the controversial tolling effort.
Drivers are charged $9 during peak hours for entering Manhattan below 60th Street. From the launch of the program on January 5 through March 31, the toll nearly matched its $160 million revenue target, according to data published Monday by the MTA.
The MTA, which operates the city’s public transportation system, oversees the congestion pricing plan, aiming to generate $500 million in 2025. The agency intends to leverage that income to secure $15 billion in bonds for major infrastructure upgrades.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration argues that the tolling policy is unlawful and has given the MTA until May 21 to comply, warning that otherwise the US Department of Transportation will cease approvals for select projects and may even pull federal funding. The MTA has maintained it will not halt collections unless compelled by a court.
Back in February, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy officially rescinded federal approval for the tolling initiative, which had been the first of its kind in the nation. The MTA swiftly filed a lawsuit to prevent Duffy’s reversal, and that courtroom battle is anticipated to stretch into the latter half of 2025.
Congestion pricing is intended to cut down on traffic and enhance air quality across Manhattan. According to the MTA, the program has already made a measurable impact, with data indicating that about 5.8 million fewer vehicles entered the priced zone during the first three months of implementation.
{Matzav.com}