Abdelrahman
Trump Aims to Repeal NYC’s Congestion Pricing Program
Former President Trump has set his sights on dismantling New York City’s congestion pricing initiative, keeping his campaign pledge to overturn the policy that imposes tolls on drivers entering Manhattan’s busiest areas. This program was designed to support repairs to the public transportation system.
In a formal letter addressed to Governor Kathy Hochul, the Secretary of Transportation articulated Trump’s concerns about this groundbreaking program—the first of its kind in the United States. The Secretary indicated that federal officials would reach out to the state to discuss how to appropriately phase out toll operations.
Launched on January 5, the congestion pricing scheme charges most vehicles a $9 fee to enter Manhattan south of 60th Street, which encompasses some of the city’s iconic locations, including Times Square and the Empire State Building. The intent of this plan is to reduce traffic in congested zones and mitigate air pollution, all while generating up to $15 billion for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the agency responsible for New York City’s public transit.
However, Trump argues that the tolls have driven away potential visitors and businesses from Manhattan. There is speculation that he may attempt to withdraw federal endorsement of the program or threaten to cut federal funding.
Interestingly, preliminary data suggests that traffic congestion decreased during the initial weeks of the program, as fewer drivers entered the tolled zones.
