What's Happening
New York's Governor Hochul is considering abandoning one of the year's most critical climate initiatives, and we need to make sure she doesn't. By taking action today, we can tell Governor Hochul that implementing Congestion Pricing is important not only in New York but across the country. After a grueling process, New York's Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) was set to implement the nation's first congestion pricing plan on June 30, 2024. The plan would charge a toll to certain vehicles entering the Congestion Relief Zone, resulting in 100,000 fewer vehicles per day in the nation's most congested district. Far from merely easing traffic, the plan would have far-reaching impacts on environmental justice and air quality. Moreover, the carefully designed fee structure would raise an estimated $1 billion annually, funding crucial improvements to New York City's public transit system. This investment is vital for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, preventing further pollution in downtown Manhattan, and providing equitable transportation options for all New Yorkers. We cannot let this opportunity slip away. As Justin Balik, the state program director for Evergreen Action, has pointed out, Governor Hochul's decision to "indefinitely pause" congestion pricing might seem to protect everyday New Yorkers, but it could actually hand over the state's transportation decisions to a future hostile federal administration. Balik, who has extensive experience with congestion pricing from his time with the New York City Department of Transportation, warns that the Trump administration previously stalled the plan, demonstrating a lack of understanding and support for New York’s climate and economic needs. If we delay implementation now, we risk falling back into the same traps. Moreover, New York’s hesitation is being watched closely by other cities. Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles have all explored similar congestion pricing policies to fund public transportation and reduce traffic. As noted by Stuart Cohen from TransForm, these cities looked to New York as a model. Hochul's pause risks dissuading these cities from pursuing their own plans, undermining a critical nationwide movement towards better urban transportation and climate resilience.
Learn About the Plan
New York City is grappling with severe traffic congestion, particularly in Manhattan's central district, which has become the most congested area in the United States. The gridlock not only causes significant delays but also contributes to high levels of air pollution and unsafe streets. Currently, average traffic speeds in this area are as low as 7.1 mph, with commuters losing an estimated 117 hours annually to traffic jams. This congestion costs the city billions of dollars each year in lost productivity and increased pollution. A significant portion of this traffic is caused by residents from outside the district who choose to drive into the area, exacerbating the already critical congestion problem. To address this issue, Congestion Pricing is set to begin on June 30, 2024. This initiative will charge vehicles a toll for entering the Congestion Relief Zone, which includes all local streets and avenues at or below 60th Street in Manhattan. The expected reduction of 100,000 vehicles daily will significantly alleviate traffic congestion, resulting in cleaner air, safer streets, and more reliable transit. Revenue from the tolls will fund $15 billion in capital improvements for the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA), enhancing public transportation across the city. Read More about the Congestion Relief Zone and the importance of this initiative at the MTA's dedicated site.
Subject: Urgent Support for Congestion Pricing Implementation Dear Governor Hochul, I am writing to express my strong support for the implementation of Congestion Pricing in New York City. This policy is crucial for several reasons: Environmental Justice and Air Quality: The reduction in vehicle congestion will significantly improve air quality, benefiting public health and the environment. It is a vital step towards addressing environmental justice concerns for communities disproportionately affected by air pollution. Public Transit Funding: The revenue generated from congestion pricing is essential for funding improvements to New York City's public transit system. These improvements are necessary for providing equitable and sustainable transportation options for all New Yorkers. Climate Action Leadership: New York has the opportunity to lead the nation in innovative climate solutions. Implementing congestion pricing sets a precedent for other cities and demonstrates our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. Delaying or pausing the implementation of this policy risks significant setbacks in our efforts to create a more sustainable and equitable urban environment. It is crucial that we move forward with congestion pricing as planned. I urge you to stand by this transformative policy and ensure its timely implementation. Your leadership on this issue is critical for the future of New York and for inspiring other cities to follow suit. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your commitment to making New York a leader in climate action and sustainable transportation. Sincerely, [Your Name]