The U.S. Department of Transportation has recently revoked federal approval for New York City’s congestion pricing program, which was implemented last month as the first of its kind in the country. This decision came after reports that President Trump wanted to shut down the program.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which had hoped to use congestion pricing as a means to fund capital improvements, announced on Wednesday that they would be defending the program in federal court.
Under this new toll structure, passenger vehicles were charged $9 during peak hours when entering Manhattan south of 60th Street, while trucks and buses paid up to $21.60. In response to USDOT’s revocation of approval, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that every American should have access to New York City regardless of their economic status and it should not be reserved for an elite few.
MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber also defended the benefits of congestion pricing by highlighting its success in reducing traffic and improving travel times for all vehicles including buses and emergency vehicles. He deemed USDOT’s actions as baseless.
In an attempt to quash New York City’s congestion pricing program – hailed as a groundbreaking initiative – reports reveal President Trump is seeking its shutdown just one month into implementation; consequently prompting The U.S Department Of Transportations’ withdrawal from approving said project . Despite MTA having looked towards this scheme with hopes it would help finance necessary infrastructure developments ,the agency declared on Wednesday their intentionto defend against any legal challenges brought forth by Federal Court .
This revised toll structure saw private cars being charged nine dollars upon entry into Manhattan below 60th street during rush hour ; meanwhile commercial trucks & busses were subjected up-to twenty-one-sixty . “Every citizen deserves equal access irrespectiveof financial standing” asserted transportation secretary Sean Duffy via statement .”NewYork shouldn’t remain exclusive onlyfor select individuals”.
Janno Lieber , MTA chairperson & CEO furthered that the program has already yielded positive results in terms of reduced traffic congestion, faster travel times and increased speeds for buses & emergency vehicles. He dismissed USDOT’s decision to revoke approval as unfounded and without merit.
