New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) board voted 10-1 to indefinitely suspend the implementation of congestion pricing after a public hearing on Wednesday, June 26th. This decision formally solidifies the announcement made earlier this month by New York Governor Kathy Hochul to delay the tolls and provide $15 billion in crucial funding for MTA.
With only three days left before MTA was set to begin collecting congestion fees, the vote on the 26th means that MTA will not levy the $15 congestion fee on drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street. The congestion pricing initiative aimed to reduce traffic flow in Manhattan and raise funds for improving public transportation facilities. The outcome of the board vote signifies a zero possibility of the Governor’s decision being overturned by MTA.
Additionally, board member David Mack, who had been against the congestion pricing plan from the start, was the sole dissenting vote on the indefinite postponement of the congestion fees. Mack leans towards a “permanent” cancellation of the congestion charges.
MTA board chairman and CEO Janno Lieber stated during the meeting, “In fact, MTA cannot start collecting congestion fees without approval from the New York State Department of Transportation, that’s the reality.” Lieber further commented, “Others may litigate this issue, if so, so be it, but this is our current situation.”
On the same day, MTA executives mentioned that due to the unexpected loss of revenue from congestion fees, MTA needs to delay projects totaling $16.5 billion, including extending the Second Avenue Subway into Harlem, signal upgrades, and new subway cars. Some projects have already been halted, causing panic among project contractors.
MTA’s Deputy Chief Development Officer Tim Mulligan stated that the authority must prioritize necessary maintenance and upgrades to keep the system running smoothly, while postponing less crucial but long-term necessary work on accessibility, expansion, and modernization.
The MTA website page regarding the Central Business District Tolling Program (congestion pricing) now displays a new notice in blue and black font: “Central Business District Tolling Plan temporarily suspended pending necessary approvals,” with the note below stating, “Congestion Relief Zone coming soon, please check back for updates.”