NEW YORK– The start date of New York City’s congestion pricing is expected sometime in January 2025, but the controversial toll plan still has a few hurdles to clear before it can become a reality.
New York Governor Hochul has done so publicly announced its plan to restart the programwhich one she paused just weeks before the initial rollout in June.
Here’s everything you need to know about the updated timeline and what should happen next.
When does congestion pricing start in NYC?
Although the official start date has not yet been announced, Hochul said congestion pricing could start as early as the new year.
The plan still must pass an MTA vote on the new pricing structure. The next board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 20.
It also must go through a federal review process and the scanners must be tested before a start date can be set.
Stay informed about congestion pricing
Hochul’s revised plan would charge most motorists $9 to enter Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone during peak hours, which are 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends.
Some exemptions have been broken down for emergency and government vehicles, school and shuttle buses, low-income drivers, and people with medical conditions that prevent them from traveling on public transportation.
The Congestion Relief Zone covers 60th Street and below and includes the Lincoln, Holland, Hugh L. Carey and Queens Midtown tunnels, and the Queensboro, Williamsburg, Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges.
Why is congestion pricing making a comeback?
The governor abruptly ended the program in June, saying the initial $15 fee was too high. Earlier this week, she said she was in discussions with federal partners about this relaunching the plan at a reduced rate of $9.
Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump has said he would eliminate congestion pricing, and New York Rep. Mike Lawler vowed to do so introduce a bill that would deny the MTA all federal funds while the program is in effect.
With the Republicans taking control of the White House, the US Senate and the House of RepresentativesNew York must act now to get the plan off the ground.
