Starting on January 5th (Sunday), the congestion pricing plan will come into effect, allowing vehicles equipped with E-ZPass devices to receive partial congestion fee relief after paying the toll when passing through four tunnels including the Lincoln Tunnel.
The congestion fee relief will apply to vehicles passing through the Lincoln Tunnel, Holland Tunnel, Queens Boro-Midtown Tunnel, and Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel to enter the congestion pricing zone south of 60th street in Manhattan. As these vehicles have already paid the tunnel toll, they are not required to pay the full congestion fee.
The deduction amount varies depending on the vehicle type, entry time, and other factors. Specifically:
1. Passenger vehicles: up to $3
2. Motorcycles: up to $1.5
3. Small trucks and vans: up to $7.2
4. Large trucks and tour buses: up to $12
It is important to note that the deduction does not apply during late-night to early morning hours because the nighttime tolls are already reduced by 75% compared to peak hours.
Drivers with E-ZPass accounts can use their electronic devices to pay tolls and automatically receive discounts. However, drivers without E-ZPass will receive a mailed invoice with higher fees and inconvenience in payment. For more information on registering for E-ZPass, the public can visit the link: e-zpassny.com
Existing E-ZPass account holders must ensure that their vehicle license plates are linked to their accounts to avail of E-ZPass benefits. New York State users can check on the E-ZPass NY website, while users from other states need to visit their respective state websites for verification.
According to E-ZPass regulations, within the first 60 days of the congestion pricing plan implementation, drivers only need to pay the congestion fee without incurring additional fines, late fees, or other charges.
Furthermore, in the final congestion pricing plan, discounts or exemptions will be provided for low-income households, individuals unable to use public transportation due to disabilities, school buses, and commuter buses.