Former Governor Andrew Cuomo continues to support New York City’s congestion pricing inner-city tolling plan, which came into effect on Sunday, despite questioning whether the timing is appropriate. Cuomo’s original plan was based on a safe and reliable subway system and a thriving city core. However, he called for a data-driven study on the impact of congestion pricing due to public lack of confidence in the subway system and the precarious state of New York City post-COVID. Cuomo emphasized that mass transit and the MTA have not yet fully recovered from COVID levels, which is crucial for the success of congestion pricing.
Cuomo highlighted the need for confidence in the MTA and mass transit systems for congestion pricing to work effectively. He expressed concerns about promoting subway usage when there have been instances of brutal attacks on commuters in the underground system. Cuomo referred to his father, Gov. Mario Cuomo, who had increased police presence in the subway system during the “bad old days.” Recent incidents of violence in the subway, such as a woman being burned alive in Coney Island and people being pushed in front of trains, have raised further concerns about the safety of mass transit.
Despite Cuomo’s reservations, Governor Kathy Hochul has pushed ahead with the congestion pricing plan, which is designed to incentivize commuters to use mass transit. Hochul stated that the reduction of the congestion toll from $15 to $9 will save drivers $1,500 per year and lead to new and improved subway services. MTA Chairman Janno Lieber commended Hochul for her support of the plan, emphasizing the benefits of cleaner air, safer streets, and reduced gridlock. Upgrades to subway lines, such as the 7 train and the L train, have already been completed under Hochul’s administration.
Cuomo’s camp argued that he oversaw upgrades to New York’s transit network without implementing tolls and criticized Hochul and Lieber for implying that he had second thoughts about congestion pricing. Cuomo’s team refuted claims that he had gotten cold feet and accused Hochul of trying to take credit for his administration’s achievements. Republicans in New York joined Cuomo in calling for a pause on congestion pricing, while Hochul and the MTA defended the tolls as a necessary source of funding for the subway system. The debate over congestion pricing continues, with concerns about the impact on commuters and the city’s recovery post-COVID.
Drivers entering Lower Manhattan from Brooklyn and New Jersey now face a $9 toll to cross below Central Park as part of the congestion pricing plan. Commuters from New Jersey must also pay Port Authority tolls to cross the Hudson River, while outer-borough commuters face similar fees when crossing the East River. Those who stay on designated highways like the FDR Drive or Joe DiMaggio West Side Highway will not be charged the congestion fee unless they turn onto surface streets. The implementation of congestion pricing has sparked controversy and debate among politicians, commuters, and transportation officials in New York City.
