NEW YORK – Congestion pricing has passed its final legislation obstacle.
The MTA announced that the Federal Highway Administration has given the revised program the green light, clearing the way for it to launch on January 5, 2025.
The street scanners are active, but opponents still hope to stop the plan. A judge has agreed to give coalition unions and elected officials a chance to argue a case for a stay.
All parties must file paperwork by the end of the month.
A hearing was scheduled to take place in December.
“Public transit riders are one big step closer to more reliable trains, accessible stations and faster buses. After years of campaigning and holding our leaders to account, relief cannot come soon enough. Relieving America’s most gridlocked neighborhoods will speed up ambulances and reduce the enormous amount of waste. and inefficiency that drives up our grocery bills and puts essentials out of reach. Reducing traffic accidents and toxic air pollution will reduce healthcare costs,” said Betsy Plum, Executive Director of Riders Alliance. “While a relatively small number will pay new tolls, 20 million Americans in four states will save time, money and aggravation. Once launched, the congestion charge will once again demonstrate that together we can tackle our common challenges and improve people’s lives.”
