Congestion pricing could start Jan. 5, 2025 in New York City. Here's what to know about the new timeline.
NEW YORK -- Congestion pricing is poised to start as soon as January 2025 in New York City, but the controversial toll still has a few more hurdles to pass before it becomes a reality.
New York Gov. Hochul unveiled her plan to restart the program, which she paused just weeks before the initial rollout back in June.
Here's everything to know about the updated timeline and what has to happen next.
When does NYC congestion pricing start?
While the official start date hasn't been finalized, Hochul announced she is aiming for midnight on Jan. 5, 2025.
The plan still has to pass an MTA vote on the new pricing structure. The next board meeting is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 18.
According to Hochul's office, the daytime E-Pass toll would cost $9 for the next two years. Starting in 2028, the MTA could then raise it up to $12.
The plan also has to go through a federal review process, and the scanners need to be tested before a start date can be set.
Get up to speed on congestion pricing
The governor's latest proposal charges most drivers $9 to enter Manhattan's Congestion Relief Zone during peak hours, which are from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays. Tolls will be 75% lower during off-peak hours to encourage overnight deliveries.
The Congestion Relief Zone covers 60th Street and below, encompassing the Lincoln, Holland, Hugh L. Carey and Queens Midtown tunnels, and the Queensboro, Williamsburg, Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges.
Some exemptions have been carved out for emergency and government vehicles, school and commuter buses, low-income drivers and those with medical conditions that prevent them from taking mass transit. Car owners who make less than $50,000 a year will be eligible for a 50% discount that kicks in after their 10th toll of a month.
Why is congestion pricing making a comeback?
Hochul suddenly paused congestion pricing in June, saying the initial $15 toll was too high. Earlier this week, she said she was in talks with federal partners about re-launching the program at a reduced rate.
Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump has said he would kill congestion pricing, and New York Rep. Mike Lawler pledged to put forward a bill that would deny the MTA any federal funds while the program is in effect.
With the Republicans taking control of the White House, U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, New York has to act now in order to get the plan off the ground.
