MTA mulls removing congestion pricing fee from Hudson, East River tunnels
New Jersey commuters could see the removal of congestion pricing fees soon when driving through the Hudson or East River tunnel.
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The Metropolitan Transportation Authority says it is considering removing the congestion price fee for New Jersey commuters who drive through the Hudson or East River tunnels.
Congestion pricing has been a hot button for residents. The proposed deal would have drivers pay an extra $9 to $23 to drive around lower Manhattan anywhere below 60th Street. Right now, it’s $17 to pass through the Hudson and East River tunnels.
"We're being responsible about it, and we're taking fairness to New Jersey into consideration,” said MTA CEO Janno Lieber.
Congestion pricing first came about as an idea to raise billions for MTA subways and buses.
"Ultimately a bigger picture emerged that caused someone who really doesn't care about New Jersey to make the change,” said Fair Congestion Pricing’s Ron Simoncini.
"They're having trouble getting people back to work already and that's having a big impact on small business and economy there,” acknowledged Rep. Josh Gottheimer. “Charging people an extra $23 is not a way to get people back into the city.”
New York has wanted to start congestion-pricing since the spring.
