New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Wednesday that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has initiated legal action in response to the Trump administration's decision to dismantle congestion pricing in New York City.
"Public transit is the lifeblood of New York City and critical to our economic future as a New Yorker, like President Trump, knows very well," Hochul asserted. She emphasized the positive impact of the congestion pricing program, which began last month, noting significant reductions in traffic congestion and improvements in commuter efficiency.
"Since this first-in-the-nation program took effect last month, congestion has dropped dramatically and commuters are getting to work faster than ever. Broadway shows are selling out and foot traffic to local businesses is spiking. School buses are getting kids to class on time, and yellow cab trips increased by 10 percent. Transit ridership is up, drivers are having a better experience, and support for this program is growing every day."
According to The Post Millennial, the legal proceedings have been filed in the Southern District of New York, aiming to uphold the congestion pricing initiative. This move follows a declaration by former President Trump, who proclaimed, "CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!"
The controversy stems from a letter by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who argued that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) lacked the "statutory authority to approve the cordon pricing tolling under the CBDTP pilot project." Consequently, Duffy announced the rescission of the FHWA's approval and the termination of the agreement that supported the Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP).
Despite the federal pushback, Governor Hochul remains resolute, stating, "The cameras are staying on." Under the current program, vehicles entering Manhattan south of 60th Street incur a toll, with peak hours extending from 5 am to 9 pm on weekdays and 9 am to 9 pm on weekends. The toll for passenger cars is set at $9 per day, with plans to increase it to $15 per day by 2031, aligning with Hochul's original proposal.
This legal battle underscores the broader debate over state versus federal authority and the role of government in regulating urban transportation. As the case unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor how these proceedings impact New York City's transportation landscape and the broader implications for similar initiatives nationwide.
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