Gov. Hochul relaunches congestion pricing plan with 40% reduction

Hochul announced the daytime toll for automobiles would be reduced from $15 to $9, calling it a 40% reduction that would save daily commuters nearly $1,500 annually.

Nadia Galindo, Natalie Hernandez and News 12 Staff

Nov 14, 2024, 11:42 PM

Updated 21 days ago

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Gov. Kathy Hochul relaunched the congestion pricing plan in an announcement in Manhattan.
She paused the plan a few weeks before it was set to take effect in June.
Hochul announced the daytime toll for automobiles would be reduced from $15 to $9, calling it a 40% reduction that would save daily commuters nearly $1,500 annually.
“By getting congestion pricing underway and fully supporting the MTA capital plan, we’ll unclog our streets, reduce pollution and deliver better public transit for millions of New Yorkers," said Hochul.
The plan is to be implemented by early January, Hochul said. The toll will be discounted further after 9 p.m. Low-income New Yorkers would get a 50% discount on every toll after the 10th toll of the month under the plan.
Hochul said the new toll structure would be enough to secure $15 billion in funding for the MTA. She said the goals of the congestion pricing plan would bring signal system modernization, the Second Avenue subway Phase 2 extension, hundreds of new electric buses, accessibility improvements at over 20 stations and upgrades for the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North.
She also said it will reduce gridlock and emissions, as well as lead to major environmental improvements in the Bronx.
Hochul said she is directing the MTA to enhance bus service for no fewer than 23 routes citywide, with the outer boroughs being a priority.
Critics of the plan said its a heavy tax on commuters.
"You know how much $9 adds up to at the end of the year? That is money that will be going to a child's education, an after-school program, so parents and middle class people will leave the city" said representatives from Passengers United.
Those in favor of the plan are applauding the governor's move, saying the money is necessary to make buses and trains faster and keep them running.
Hochul voiced support for the MTA's 2025-2029 Capital plan that was approved in September. Hochul said the plan will help fund projects such as the Interborough Express, which she said will reduce the commute between Brooklyn and Queens by up to 30 minutes each way.