New York has officially launched the United States’ first-ever congestion charge scheme, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and fund its public transport system. The initiative, which went into effect recently, requires drivers to pay a daily fee to enter a designated congestion zone in Manhattan, a densely populated area south of Central Park. Notable landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Wall Street fall within this zone.
Under the new system, car drivers will pay up to $9 per day for entering during peak hours, with a lower fee of $2.25 for off-peak periods. Small trucks and buses will face a charge of $14.40 during rush hours, while larger trucks and tourist buses will incur a fee of $21.60. The money raised through these fees is intended to alleviate New York’s infamous traffic issues and to generate funds for enhancing the city’s public transport network.
However, the scheme has encountered significant resistance. One of its most vocal opponents is President-elect Donald Trump, a native of New York, who has vowed to overturn the scheme when he returns to office. Trump’s opposition is backed by local Republican politicians, including Congressman Mike Lawler, who has labeled the charge an “absurd congestion pricing cash grab” and called for its immediate end.
Taxi drivers’ associations have also voiced their displeasure, fearing that the charges will severely impact their livelihoods. Additionally, concerns were raised about the scheme’s potential environmental consequences. In response, New Jersey officials attempted to block the scheme, but a judge recently dismissed their efforts.
Despite the resistance, New York City remains committed to the plan, which is seen as a critical solution to its traffic woes. The city was named the most-congested urban area globally for the second consecutive year by traffic data firm INRIX, with vehicles in downtown Manhattan crawling at an average speed of just 11 mph (17 km/h) during peak morning hours last year.
As the scheme begins, its success will be closely watched, with the city hoping it will serve as a model for other US cities grappling with similar traffic challenges.
