A Halt to Congestion Pricing: What Next?

We have discussed the proposed plan for congestion pricing in New York City’s downtown area, and have seen pros and cons. In some ways, it is tangential to our interests, as it is unclear how much money the State of New Jersey would get for “mitigation measures” and what those measures would entail. We would hope it includes improved transit to some extent (it is common sense for tolls paid by New Jersey motorists to go toward improving transportation on the N.J. side), but without details, we’re forced to believe that improved transit would be an afterthought. Now, of course, it is moot—the governor has delayed implementation indefinitely. This could mean it is dead for the foreseeable future, or it could be an opportunity to revisit the plan. There have already been suggestions of bringing it back with a lower revenue goal for the MTA and consequent tolls lower than the $15 originally planned. Surrounding communities, from upper Manhattan to Bergen County and other “west shore” Hudson River areas, may get another chance to ensure that they are not deluged with parking needs should the plan return. In any case, we will closely watch the developments of this issue, especially after November, when the elections have passed and legislators feel freer to tackle controversial issues.

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