New York Implements Congestion Charges in Manhattan

New York City has launched its groundbreaking congestion pricing program, becoming the first US city to introduce such a system.

The initiative imposes fees on drivers entering the designated "Congestion Reduction Zone," encompassing streets south of 60th Street in Manhattan.

Under the program, private vehicle drivers face charges of up to $9 during peak hours, while trucks and buses may pay as much as $14.25.

Nighttime rates drop to as low as $2.25. Discounts are automatically applied to drivers who have already paid tolls on bridges and tunnels entering the city.

The fees extend to taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, with a $0.75 surcharge for taxi trips within the zone and an additional $1.50 for rideshare trips.

According to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion, improve air quality, and fund public transportation upgrades.

It is expected to reduce the number of vehicles entering the zone by approximately 80,000 daily while accelerating emergency response times for ambulances and fire trucks.

Revenue from the program will support $15 billion in public transit projects, including subway and bus improvements. The MTA plans to increase the charges to $12 by 2028 and $15 by 2031.

Despite its goals, the program has faced criticism. Lawmakers from New Jersey and New York suburbs argue the fees unfairly burden those who rely on cars to access Manhattan.