Gov. Hochul Moves Forward with NYC Congestion Pricing
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has announced that plans for congestion pricing tolls in New York City will proceed, a decision that has sparked backlash from the Trucking Association of New York (TANY).
In a press release issued Thursday, Hochul revealed that the implementation of the tolls will resume in early January. This decision follows a previous halt of the tolls after TANY filed a federal lawsuit against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in May to block the initiative.
The revised plan implements a 40% reduction in tolls compared to the initial proposal for all vehicles entering Manhattan’s Central Business District, located south of 60th Street. The MTA has made available a map illustrating the toll-affected areas.
Hochul stated, “From the outset, a $15 toll was simply too steep given the current economic situation.” She emphasized that the new plan will decrease the daytime toll for cars to $9. By initiating congestion pricing and bolstering the MTA’s capital program, she aims to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce pollution, and enhance public transit for millions of New Yorkers.
Toll Details for Trucking
Under the new toll structure, “small” one-unit trucks will incur a fee of $14.40 to enter the zone, while “large” two-unit trucks will be charged $21.60. Regular toll rates will apply on weekdays from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Additionally, a 75% discounted overnight toll during non-peak hours is intended to decrease diversions and promote off-peak deliveries.
TANY’s Response to Congestion Pricing
Following the announcement, TANY released a statement expressing that the updated proposal still overlooks the crucial role that trucks have in New York’s economy. They noted that all vehicles entering the business district will incur charges regardless of their frequency of travel, potentially disadvantaging trucks that need to enter and exit the zone frequently.
TANY President Kendra Hems remarked, “While state leaders are articulating a vision of lower living costs, New Yorkers should not be misled; this congestion pricing plan remains detrimental to the economy, will disrupt supply chains, and will increase the cost of goods essential for households in the five boroughs and surrounding areas.” She added that TANY will continue to utilize all available resources to combat this plan and seek relief for hardworking operators and New Yorkers relying on their services.
Hems also reiterated that the ongoing issue is the inequitable pricing structure that disproportionately affects trucking operators, imposing an additional financial burden on an industry that is responsible for transporting 90% of goods in New York State. TANY plans to pursue its previously filed lawsuit to prevent the toll plan from advancing.
