NJ residents make first weekday commute to Manhattan with congestion pricing in effect
Although congestion pricing is in effect, it is still getting pushback from New Jersey leaders.
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Congestion pricing is now in effect for those entering Manhattan’s Central Business District.
Some speculated that New Jersey Transit trains would be filled with New Jersey commuters looking to avoid the new $9 toll, but some commuters told News 12 that they did not notice any significant uptick in ridership on Monday.
“The parking lot definitely looked a little fuller for a Monday morning; especially with some snow being expected. But, otherwise, I didn't notice too much of a difference,” said one rider.
“It doesn’t seem like it's affected,” said another.
Although congestion pricing is in effect, it is still getting pushback from New Jersey leaders – particularly some mayors in northern New Jersey who say they are concerned drivers will avoid the Lincoln and Holland tunnels in favor of the George Washington Bridge to avoid the toll. Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich has expressed concern that this would cause heavier congestion in his town.
New York officials say that congestion pricing is designed to have more commuters use mass transit and not drive into the city. Drivers will only be charged once per day.
RELATED: NJ leaders concerned over congestion pricing's impact on their communities
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Are there discounts?
The MTA approved several exemptions including for low-income drivers, emergency and government vehicles as well as school and commuter buses.
Ride share options including taxis will not be charged the toll but instead will pass a fee onto passengers.
Fore more information visit, https://congestionreliefzone.mta.info/.
