New York City’s Congestion Pricing Plan Moves Forward with Lower Toll Rates
A plan to charge tolls for trucks and other vehicles driving in the busiest parts of New York City is moving forward after being paused in June. In response, the state’s trucking association has renewed its strong opposition, arguing that the tolls will lead to higher costs for residents.
Last Thursday, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the congestion pricing plan will be implemented January 5th, 2025, but with reduced toll rates compared to the original proposal. The plan aims to ease traffic congestion in the central business district (below 60th street), reduce air pollution, and generate funding for the city’s public transit system.
Per a press release from the Governor’s office, under the revised plan, large trucks will face a toll of $21.60, down from the previously proposed $36. Smaller trucks will pay $14.40, a decrease from $24. Passenger vehicles will be charged $9, lower than the original $15 toll. The plan also states that prices for travel during the night time in the CBD will be decreased by 75% – in an effort to encourage after-hours truck deliveries.
While some see this as an optimistic opportunity, others – especially industry stakeholders – see this as a negative. One of those being, the Trucking Association of New York, which plans to use their resources to fight this pricing plan. They feel the disproportionate pricing structure negatively impacts truck drivers more than passenger drivers.
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