CNS –
DRIVERS trying to navigate the traffic-choked streets of New York City only have hours remaining until they will have to pay for the privilege.
The city’s congestion charge will force drivers to fork out $9 from January 5.
Officials in New Jersey believe the state will be impacted economically by New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s plans, as reported by the ABC affiliate WABC-TV.
Judge Leo Gordon revealed Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials didn’t provide enough details on how any impacts seen in New Jersey will be mitigated.
Meanwhile, around $20 million will be put aside to fund an asthma center. And around $10 million is to be set aside for air filtration systems.
Gordon largely dismissed most of the complaints that New Jersey officials raised.
New York state officials had until January 17 to reply to the concerns.
A hearing is to be held in Newark at 3 pm tomorrow – which would be 33 hours before the charge comes into force.
New York state officials are adamant that there will be no delay.
“Despite the best efforts of the State of New Jersey trying to thwart New York’s ability to reduce congestion on our streets while making long-overdue investments in public transit, our position has prevailed in court on nearly every issue,” officials said.
Important New Laws Go into Effect Today in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware
“This is a massive win for commuters in both New York and New Jersey.”
Janno Lieber, the chair of the MTA, believes the ruling will not impact the program’s rollout.
The toll will target drivers that enter Manhattan below 60 th Street.
Cars and pick-up trucks will be charged $9 for traveling at peak times.
CONGESTION PRICING OPT-OUT
An estimated 26,000 drivers are exempt from the tolls.
Several thousand drivers will not have to pay the tolls to enter Manhattan.
The city’s fleet of vehicles—including police cars, first responders, and parks and recreation vehicles—will not be charged to use lower Manhattan roads.
Bus drivers that have contracted with the education department will also avoid the fees.
The toll does not apply to drivers on FDR Drive, the West Side Highway, or the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel connecting to West Street.
Public employees who drive passenger cars into work will pay the tolls.
Motorcyclists will have to pay $4.50, while trucks and buses will be charged between $14.40 and $21.60.
The peak times will apply between 5 am to 9 am on weekdays. Drivers traveling at off-peak times will see a reduction in their fees.
New York officials have revealed that for the first 60 days, there will be no extra charges.
They believe the toll, which will be the nation’s first congestion charge, will help improve the quality of life, lead to safer streets, and reduce emissions.
The toll charge was revised to $9 in November after Hochul decided to revise her initial plans to roll out a $15 surcharge.