Gov. Hochul Refuses NYC Toll Increase to Alleviate Holiday Traffic

During the busy holiday season, Manhattan faces significant traffic congestion, impacting both drivers and pedestrians. Despite the issue, Governor Kathy Hochul has opted not to activate a tool meant to ease this problem, much to the dismay of transit advocates.

Governor Hochul Rejects NYC Toll Increase to Alleviate Holiday Traffic

New York State law allows for a 25% increase in daily congestion tolls on designated “Gridlock Alert” days. These days are identified by the city’s Department of Transportation, usually around major events and during the holiday season. However, Governor Hochul has prohibited the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) from implementing this surcharge.

Background on Congestion Pricing

• The surge pricing was set before congestion pricing took effect in January 2024.
• Hochul’s order was issued right after her party’s disappointing election performance, primarily attributed to concerns over living costs.
• The MTA generates nearly $2 million daily from congestion tolls, which are allocated for infrastructure improvements.

The current base fare for vehicles traveling below 60th Street is $9. A 25% increase would raise this fee to $11.25. This adjustment could significantly help reduce traffic during peak times, particularly around the holidays.

Reactions from Transit Advocates

Prominent transit planner Sam Schwartz expressed disappointment over Hochul’s decision. He advocates for a more refined congestion pricing system that charges based on the extent of usage within the Central Business District.

This year, the city’s Department of Transportation has designated 20 “Gridlock Alert” days. On these days, pro-transit groups urged state leaders to take decisive actions to combat traffic congestion rather than inaction, dubbing Hochul as a “Grinch” for not supporting a surcharge during busy travel times.

Political Implications

With Hochul facing re-election next year, some experts argue that increasing tolls during the holidays may not resonate well with suburban voters who frequently visit the city to shop. Urban policy professor Mitchell Moss believes that delaying any toll increases could be politically advantageous for Hochul.

The MTA’s Chair, Janno Lieber, has indicated that the agency is operating with a balanced budget, complicating the case for extra congestion fees. Furthermore, the MTA has proposed increasing the congestion toll to $15 by 2031, but Hochul has no intention to raise prices in the immediate future.

Additional Developments in NYC Transit

In other transport news, a significant subway car-washing facility in Canarsie is currently non-operational, affecting train cleanliness. Meanwhile, a legislative proposal in Staten Island seeks to study the possibility of lifting restrictions on right turns at red lights. Additionally, transit updates include a plan to rearrange F and M train routes to enhance commute times.

As the holiday season approaches, it remains to be seen how these factors will influence traffic patterns in New York City and whether Governor Hochul will reconsider her stance on increases to congestion tolls.