New York City ignores federal deadline to end congestion pricing

New York Governor Kathy Hochul addressed the 2024 Democratic National Convention at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, on Monday, August 19, 2024. The convention is scheduled from Monday, August 19, to Thursday, August 22. A photo was taken by Tannen Maury/UPI.

On April 20, it was reported that New York City’s $9 congestion pricing charge for specific areas in the city will remain in place, as it surpassed a federal deadline on Sunday that aimed to end it. Governor Kathy Hochul stated, “The program is effective. Traffic has decreased, businesses have flourished, and the cameras will continue to operate.” She has been a strong advocate for the initiative, highlighting its advantages.

The Department of Transportation had instructed New York City to “terminate” the program by a Sunday deadline. In response, a statement from the department mentioned, “USDOT will persist in advocating for working-class Americans whose tax contributions have supported and maintained these roads.” This directive followed attempts by President-Elect Donald Trump to halt the program, expressing his lack of support even before taking office and reiterating his stance in February during his second term.

A federal judge ruled in favor of New York City, allowing the toll to remain in effect. Governor Hochul and the Metropolitan Transit Authority affirmed that the cameras would continue to operate and the toll system would remain until further court decisions are made.

The congestion pricing plan has surpassed several federal requirements and deadlines, becoming active on January 5. Drivers entering Manhattan’s central business district, spanning from 60th St. to the southern boundary of the Financial District, are subject to a $9 charge from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends.