Trump Admin Axes Congestion Pricing
U.S. Transportation Secretary Rescinds Federal Approval, Cancellation of Congestion Pricing in New York City
The Trump Administration has taken action to remove congestion pricing in New York City, effectively canceling the program that aimed to reduce traffic and pollution in the city. In a letter to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy rescinded federal approval and cancelled the agreement that allowed the New York Department of Transportation to collect tolls.
Congestion Pricing: A Brief Overview
Congestion pricing charges vehicles entering Manhattan south of 60th Street, targeting traffic and pollution. The program began on January 5, 2022.
Why the Trump Administration Wants to Get Rid of Congestion Pricing
According to Duffy, he reviewed the legal basis of the toll and its impact on drivers, pointing out that it forced them to pay no matter what route they chose. He claimed that Congress only allows tolling on certain highways and in ways that offer a toll-free alternative. Duffy also stated that drivers already paid highway taxes and that the toll was just a smokescreen for an MTA cash grab.
Hochul Defends Congestion Pricing
Hochul defended the program, citing its success in reducing traffic and speeding up commutes. She stated that gridlock dropped, local businesses thrived, and more buses and cabs helped New York City run smoother.
Reactions to the Decision
President Donald Trump celebrated the decision, posting on social media, “CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!” Governor Kathy Hochul responded, “We are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king.” NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, who may serve as New York City Mayor if Eric Adams resigns or is removed, condemned Duffy’s actions, saying, “This amateurish attempt to defund our city’s public transit, pollute our air, and stall our progress must be clearly condemned and combated by all responsible leaders.” MTA Chair Janno Lieber also expressed his support for the program, calling it a “highly successful program which has already dramatically reduced congestion, bringing reduced traffic and faster travel times, while increasing speeds for buses and emergency vehicles.”
Other Reactions
Republican Congressmember Mike Lawler, Hochul’s likely adversary in the next election for governor of New York, praised ending the program, calling the toll plan a scam that hurt small businesses. “Instead of imposing new, crippling taxes on struggling families, we should be auditing the MTA, the worst-run authority in America, to find savings, address its outrageous waste, and make sure that commuters are kept safe and served as well as they deserve,” Lawler said.
FAQs
- What is congestion pricing?
- What is the purpose of congestion pricing in New York City?
- Why did the Trump Administration want to get rid of congestion pricing?
- What did the Governor and other officials say about the decision?
- How did other officials and experts react to the decision?
Conclusion
The decision to axe congestion pricing has sparked controversy and debate in New York City. While some argue that the program was effective in reducing traffic and pollution, others claim that it was an unnecessary burden on drivers. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen what the future holds for congestion pricing in New York City.
