New York Launches First-Ever US Congestion Charge to Tackle Traffic and Boost Transit
New York City has implemented the first congestion charge scheme in the United States, targeting vehicles entering the busiest parts of Manhattan.
Drivers of passenger cars will pay up to $9 (£7) per day during peak hours, with lower rates of $2.25 at off-peak times. Charges for other vehicles vary, with small trucks and non-commuter buses paying $14.40 and larger trucks or tourist buses facing a $21.60 fee.
The congestion zone encompasses areas south of Central Park, including landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Wall Street. The initiative aims to alleviate New York City's infamous traffic congestion and generate billions in revenue for public transportation improvements.
Despite its goals, the plan has faced significant opposition. Former President Donald Trump, a native of New York, has pledged to eliminate the scheme upon returning to office. Congressman Mike Lawler, representing a suburban district near the city, has called it an "absurd congestion pricing cash grab" and urged Trump to take action.
Opposition also comes from local groups, including taxi drivers' associations and neighboring New Jersey officials, who raised concerns about environmental impacts on nearby areas. However, a judge rejected New Jersey's attempt to block the scheme just days before its implementation.
The congestion charge, initially proposed by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul two years ago, faced delays and revisions due to complaints from commuters and businesses. Hochul had paused the plan in June, citing "unintended consequences" for residents, but the updated version has now taken effect.
New York's traffic problems are among the worst globally. In 2022, traffic analytics firm INRIX named the city the world's most congested urban area for the second consecutive year. During peak morning hours, vehicles in downtown Manhattan averaged just 11 mph (17 km/h).
The new scheme is expected to address these challenges by discouraging car usage and funding critical upgrades to the city's public transit system.
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