Recently, the state government of New Jersey took the issue of imposing congestion fees in Manhattan to the United States International Trade Court, seeking to halt the collection of such fees. On December 30, a judge rejected most of New Jersey’s accusations but acknowledged the need for further research on the impact of air quality in New Jersey that may be affected and requested a review, demanding a response from the state of New York by January 17. Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul, and MTA Chairman stated Monday evening that the judge’s ruling does not affect the collection of congestion fees, and the implementation will proceed as planned on January 5.
Judge Leo Gordon of the United States International Trade Court ruled on Monday, December 30, dismissing most of New Jersey’s allegations regarding the congestion fees but highlighted the need for further investigation into air quality issues.
New Jersey’s representative lawyer, Randy Mastro, stated, “We appreciate the court’s decision. Due to New Jersey’s lawsuit, the judge has ordered a review of this issue, thus MTA cannot implement congestion fees on January 5, 2025.”
MTA Chairman, Janno Lieber, released a statement noting that the court supported most of New York’s positions, and the ruling will not impact the scheduled implementation of congestion fees starting on January 5. He added, “Regarding the additional data requested by the judge from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), we believe that subsequent federal actions, including approval for the reduced fee scheme, have addressed the related issues.”
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York stated that the court’s decision overwhelmingly supports New York’s position, and therefore, congestion fees will progress this weekend, which she deems a significant victory for commuters in New York and New Jersey. She emphasized that after the implementation of the plan, the original tolls will decrease by 40%, providing commuters with a safer and more efficient transportation system while reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality.
Despite New York’s active promotion of congestion fees, opposition from New Jersey remains strong. Representative Mastro from New Jersey stated, “The judge believes that the Federal Highway Administration’s actions in approving the MTA plan were arbitrary and lacked reasonable explanation, and New York unilaterally changed the fee structure after obtaining federal approval, these issues need to be further considered before the plan is implemented.” He emphasized that New Jersey will continue to staunchly oppose the enforcement of the scheme in the final weeks of the Biden administration.