The MTA’s congestion pricing plan is officially a go beginning January 5, 2025, after a pause in June 2024 and a recent revival from New York Governor Kathy Hochul in November.
The Federal Highway Administration gave the plan a thumbs up on Friday, November 22nd, after the MTA approved the plan in an overwhelming 12-to-1 vote on November 18th. Now that federal approval has been granted, the next efforts on the “to-do” include testing out the scanners before the program kicks off.
“We are pleased to have received formal approval from the Federal Highway Administration for the phase-in feature of the Central Business District Tolling Program, and in compliance with federal law and regulations, New York State DOT, New York City DOT, TBTA, and the federal government have all signed the Value Pricing Pilot Program Agreement.”
Though the program has been met with skepticism, Governor Hochul believes that reinstating the plan for the Central Business District (60th Street and below in Manhattan) has its benefits — especially considering the initial $15 price has been decreased to $9.
“We’re still getting the $15 billion to fund the MTA and drivers are paying $6 less. This lower toll will still allow us to accomplish all — and I mean all — of the goals of congestion pricing: new modern signals, the long-awaited Second Avenue subway, new electric busses, elevators, and this will generate major investments for our suburban commuters as well,” Governor Hochul added during a press event earlier this month.
Since there’s a lot to take in about the new plan, the MTA is hosting webinars throughout December to keep New Yorkers informed. Registration is required.