Trump Administration Halts NYC Congestion Pricing Program
The Trump administration has moved to terminate New York City’s congestion pricing program, a toll system designed to reduce traffic in Manhattan and raise billions for the city’s aging mass transit system. The program, which began on January 5, 2025, charges drivers $9 to enter Manhattan below 60th Street during peak hours. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, in a letter to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, argued that the tolls unfairly burden working-class Americans and small business owners, claiming that highway users have already financed infrastructure through gas taxes. He also cited objections from New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, who called the program a “disaster” for commuters.
President Donald Trump celebrated the move on social media, declaring, “CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!” Governor Hochul, however, vowed to fight the decision in court, stating, “We are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king.” She emphasized the program’s success in reducing congestion and improving transit efficiency, with Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) CEO Janno Lieber noting that the system had already shown benefits, including faster commutes and increased economic activity.
The MTA has filed a lawsuit against the federal government, arguing that the decision to revoke approval was politically motivated and lacked legal basis. The program was expected to generate $15 billion for critical upgrades to New York’s transit system, which serves millions daily. Critics of the administration’s move, including New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, called it an overreach, while proponents of congestion pricing highlighted its environmental and economic benefits.
The legal battle over the program’s future is expected to intensify, with New York officials determined to preserve the initiative despite federal opposition.
Trump administration terminates approval of New York City congestion pricing
Gov. Kathy Hochul insisted that the cameras crucial to the toll structure will remain in operation. The cameras are staying on, she said.
www.nbcnews.com
Donald Trump declares himself ‘king’ after striking down New York congestion pricing
Trump faces legal challenge after threatening to kill Manhattan toll that raises money for mass transit
www.independent.co.uk
Trump administration rescinds congestion pricing for New York City
Daily $9 fee designed to reduce traffic in heart of Manhattan and raise billions to upgrade subway train and bus systems
www.theguardian.com
Trump Withdraws Federal Approval for Congestion Pricing, Blowing Hole in Transit Budget, as MTA Files Lawsuit - Streetsblog New York City
The $9 toll is a burden on working class residents, according to DOT Secretary Sean Duffy, who ignored the millions of working-class regional resident
nyc.streetsblog.org
Congestion pricing in Manhattan is going quite well, thanks!
Everyone’s trips are faster.
ggwash.org