RELEASE: Hochul announces start of congestion pricing road tax plan at November 14, 2024 press conference in Manhattan. Press release, Youtube video, transcript, endorsements included. NYSNYS News
For Immediate Release: 11/14/2024
GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL
PUTTING COMMUTERS FIRST, KEEPING COSTS DOWN: GOVERNOR HOCHUL UNVEILS PLANS FOR FUTURE OF TRANSIT AND TRAFFIC IN NEW YORK CITY, INCLUDING A 40 PERCENT REDUCTION IN CONGESTION PRICING TOLLS
Toll Reduction to $9 for Cars Will Save Drivers Up To $1,500 Annually
Commuters Will See New and Improved Subway Service, Second Avenue Subway Extension, Investments in LIRR and Metro North, and Elevator Service for Seniors and People With Disabilities
Outer Borough Residents Will Benefit From Proposed Expansion of Bus Service and Plans To Build Interborough Express — Eliminating 30 Minutes Of Commuting Time Between Brooklyn and Queens
Governor Directs MTA To Make Responsible, Targeted Investments and Find $100 Million in Annual Savings; Commits to Funding 2025-2029 Capital Plan
Governor's Comprehensive Approach Wins Support From Broad Coalition of Environmental Advocates and Business Groups
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a plan to begin implementing congestion pricing in New York City by early January. In keeping with her promise to lower the cost of tolls from $15, the Governor’s plan features a 40 percent reduction in all tolls for vehicles entering the City’s Central Business District (CBD), saving commuters up to $1,500 per year. That plan also includes new tools to reduce congestion and air pollution in communities citywide – all of which will ensure that the plan achieves the goals of congestion pricing, including $15 billion in mass transit funding to support the MTA’s current Capital Program. Additionally, Governor Hochul committed to funding the proposed 2025-2029 MTA Capital Plan that was approved by the MTA Board in September – the largest capital plan for transit in New York State history.
“As I said from the start, a $15 toll was just too high in this economic climate. That’s why our plan cuts the daytime toll to $9 for cars,” Governor Hochul said. “By getting congestion pricing underway and fully supporting the MTA capital plan, we’ll unclog our streets, reduce pollution and deliver better public transit for millions of New Yorkers.”
MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “New Yorkers deserve cleaner air, safer streets and ambulances that can get to them without gridlock, and the Governor is stepping up for them and for riders who need trains and buses to get them where they have to go — just like she did with the Budget in 2023. Now you’re seeing it again, a huge milestone for 6.5 million commuters. We want to bring more frequent and reliable service — to all our customers — just like we have on the 7 and L lines where upgrades are already complete.”
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “This first-in-the-nation program being launched by Governor Hochul will help us achieve our goal of a less congested City of New York, with cleaner air and safer streets. It will also provide the critically important resources needed to create a more efficient and accessible public transportation system that will ease commutes and improve the quality of transportation for everyone in the Metropolitan Region.”
New York City Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi said, “Today, we move forward with a plan that will reduce traffic in the Central Business District and provide long-term investment in the bedrock of our city’s economy, our public transportation network, while also giving everyone time to get used to this new reality. Deep thanks to Governor Hochul, FHWA, the MTA, NYCDOT, NYSDOT and the thousands of hard-working civil servants who did the painstaking analysis that helped us arrive at this day.”
Governor Hochul’s new congestion pricing plan has already won support from a broad coalition of stakeholders including the Regional Plan Association (RPA), League of Conservation Voters (LCV), Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Partnership for New York City and Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), among others.
The adjusted phase in feature will be taken up by the MTA Board at its next meeting on November 18. Under this plan, congestion pricing will be ready for implementation at midnight on Sunday, January 5.
CONGESTION PRICING PLAN
Toll Structure and Delivering $15 Billion Over Time for Current MTA Capital Program
Under the plan announced by Governor Hochul today, the toll structure for entering New York City’s CBD (Manhattan below 60th Street) would initially be as follows, starting at midnight on January 5. This structure represents a 40 percent reduction in all tolls:
Daytime E-ZPass tolls
Passenger vehicles (once per day): $9
Motorcycles (once per day): $4.50
Small trucks and non-commuter buses: $14.40
Large trucks and sightseeing buses: $21.60
Tunnel crossing credits reduced by 40 percent of original plan
Nighttime discounts of 75 percent of daytime tolls
Per-ride fees for all trips to, from, or within the CBD
Taxis and black cars: $0.75
App-based for-hire vehicles: $1.50
For commuters who drive into the CBD five days per week, this 40 percent reduction in the toll will save them approximately $1,500 per year.
Additionally, some eligible drivers will receive additional discounts, credits and exemptions, such as a low-income volume discount or a qualified disability exemption.
While the toll structure under this plan is lower than the tolls initially proposed, it will still enable the MTA to leverage $15 billion in bonds for the MTA’s current Capital Program over time – the same goal for the congestion pricing program. This includes supporting current Capital Program initiatives including:
Second Ave Subway Phase 2 extension to East Harlem
Modern signal systems on segments of the A/C and B/D/F/M lines for over 1.5 million daily riders
Accessibility improvements at more than 20 stations
Hundreds of new electric buses
Additionally, the administration expects to achieve congestion reduction and air quality benefits set forth in the environmental review for the congestion pricing program, including a 5 percent reduction in vehicle miles traveled and a 10 percent reduction in the number of vehicles entering Manhattan’s CBD.
Pursuant to Governor Hochul’s plan, MTA will not raise the initial tolls beyond the following percentages of the approved structure:
60 percent (i.e. a $9 daytime automobile E-ZPass toll) from 2025 through 2027
80 percent (i.e. a $12 daytime automobile E-ZPass toll) from 2028 through 2030
The phase-in feature over time will help drivers adapt more easily to the program and give the MTA and other stakeholders the ability to monitor data regarding implementation and effects.
Improving Air Quality in Environmental Justice Communities
Governor Hochul’s congestion pricing plan commits to funding the low-income discount and every place-based and regional mitigation as already committed to, including:
$15 million to replace diesel-powered Transport Refrigeration Units at Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx
$20 million to establish an asthma center and case management program in the Bronx
$20 million to implement electric truck charging infrastructure
$10 million to install air filtration units in schools near highways
$10 million to install roadside vegetation
$25 million to renovate parks and greenspace
$20 million to expand the NYC Clean Trucks Program
$5 million to expand the NYCDOT Off-Hours Delivery Program
A 75 percent discounted overnight toll to reduce diversions and encourage off-hours truck deliveries
A 50 percent discount on the daytime E-ZPass toll rate after the first 10 trips in each calendar month for low-income drivers
New Proposals to Further Reduce Traffic and Pollution
The Governor is also proposing a package of new measures that will help reduce traffic and air pollution throughout New York City and beyond. These proposals will be included in her Executive Budget proposal in January and will include:
Expansion of the successful joint MTA-NYC Automated Camera Enforcement program to permit enforcement of “blocking the box” violations at NYC street intersections, helping avoid gridlock and keep traffic moving smoothly.
Expanded statutory authorization for the use of weigh-in-motion (WIM) technology to help keep overweight vehicles off of our streets and improve traffic flow.
Raising the threshold value for authorized removal of abandoned derelict vehicles, and permitting the City to impose a surcharge for street permits on construction projects that block traffic lanes, promoting efficient use of our curb space.
Expanding Bus Service Across New York City
Governor Hochul believes it is necessary to expand MTA bus service in New York City to increase and improve alternatives to driving – particularly for outer borough communities without convenient subway access. To actualize that goal, the Governor is proposing that the MTA increase frequency, make running time adjustments and deliver other enhancements on at least 23 bus routes citywide – including at least 15 local routes and eight express routes. Six of those express routes have been previously announced: BM2, BM5, SIM1C, SIM4C, SIM23 and SIM24. The other selected routes will be determined by the MTA based on factors including ridership, crowding, equity priority areas and the presence of bus priority lanes.
FUNDING THE PROPOSED 2025-2029 MTA CAPITAL PLAN
In September, the MTA Board approved a proposed 2025-2029 Capital Plan and sent it to the Capital Program Review Board for further approval as required under statute. The proposed plan would spend a total of $68.4 billion, including $47.8 billion for NYC Transit, Staten Island Railway and MTA Bus Company, $6 billion each for Metro-North Railroad and Long Island Rail Road, $5.3 billion for major projects and expansion, and $3 billion for MTA Bridges and Tunnels. This is the largest MTA capital plan proposed in New York’s history.
The Governor highlighted that potential contributions from federal, state, City and MTA sources are expected to be sufficient to fund approximately half of the plan.
Governor Hochul also highlighted her full support for the MTA 2025-2029 Capital Plan and her intention to work during budget negotiations next year with federal, State legislative and City partners to close the remaining gap.
Additionally, the Governor stated her commitment to ensuring fiscal responsibility and greater efficiency at the MTA, including directing the MTA to find $100 million in annual savings building on recent cost saving initiatives.
Representative Jerry Nadler said, “For years I’ve said that congestion pricing is the best — and only — solution to getting our transit system back on track. With today’s announcement, the MTA’s 2025-2029 capital plan is secured, allowing the MTA to advance work on the 2nd Avenue Subway extension, Penn Access, ADA accessibility upgrades, and more. We will end the congested streets that put public safety and emergency response at risk while meeting our climate goals to fight the climate crisis. Our city cannot afford to delay any further. With the necessary approvals nearly complete, the law is clear: Congestion pricing can and must move forward. I applaud Governor Hochul for moving forward on this once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform public transit in NYC and end decades of underinvestment in the MTA.”
Partnership for New York City President & CEO Kathryn Wylde said, “Excess congestion costs our metropolitan region more than $20 billion a year as movement of goods and people is slowed by traffic. The Governor’s decision to allow congestion pricing to proceed, even with a reduced toll, will benefit business and consumers across the region and is a critical component for financing a better, safer and more reliable transit system.”
Natural Resources Defense Council NYC Environment Director Eric A. Goldstein said, “Governor Hochul's announcement to give the green light to New York City's congestion pricing program is a welcome step forward that is more urgent now than ever. This strategy will slash traffic congestion in the nation’s largest central business district; cut global warming emissions and other air pollutants; and help rebuild the region’s subway, bus and commuter rail network. The Governor’s announcement also assures that much-needed pollution-reduction funding will be flowing into environmental justice projects in the South Bronx.”
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For Immediate Release: 11/14/2024
GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: ELECTED AND COMMUNITY LEADERS SUPPORT GOVERNOR HOCHUL’S PLAN TO FUND TRANSIT AND PUT COMMUTERS FIRST
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the pause on congestion pricing will be lifted in New York City by early January. The implementation of the congestion pricing program is a testament to the Governor’s commitment in reducing traffic congestion and air pollution throughout New York City. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s 2025-29 capital plan would spend a total of $68.4 billion, including $47.8 billion for NYC Transit, Staten Island Railway and MTA Bus Company, $6 billion each for Metro-North Railroad and Long Island Rail Road, $5.3 billion for major projects and expansion, and $3 billion for MTA Bridges and Tunnels — this is the largest MTA capital plan proposed in New York’s history, focused on improving the infrastructure and reliability of the city’s transit system for New Yorkers.
New York City Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi said, “Today, we move forward with a plan that will reduce traffic in the Central Business District and provide long-term investment in the bedrock of our city’s economy, our public transportation network, while also giving everyone time to get used to this new reality. Deep thanks to Governor Hochul, FHWA, the MTA, NYCDOT, NYSDOT and the thousands of hard-working civil servants who did the painstaking analysis that helped us arrive at this day.”
Representative Jerry Nadler said, “For years I’ve said that congestion pricing is the best — and only — solution to getting our transit system back on track. With today’s announcement, the MTA’s 2025-2029 capital plan is secured, allowing the MTA to advance work on the 2nd Avenue Subway extension, Penn Access, ADA accessibility upgrades, and more. We will end the congested streets that put public safety and emergency response at risk while meeting our climate goals to fight the climate crisis. Our city cannot afford to delay any further. With the necessary approvals nearly complete, the law is clear: Congestion pricing can and must move forward. I applaud Governor Hochul for moving forward on this once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform public transit in NYC and end decades of underinvestment in the MTA.”
Representative Daniel Goldman said, “As a persistent advocate for congestion pricing, I am pleased that there is now a clear path towards its long overdue implementation. Congestion pricing has the ability to reduce traffic, protect our environment, and serve as a lifeline for funding New York's public transit system, which will dramatically improve the lives of all New Yorkers. I'm looking forward to continuing to work alongside Governor Hochul and the MTA to make sure our city and our communities finally reap the benefits of this vitally important policy.”
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said, “New Yorkers rely on our transit system, and it simply needs to be more accessible, reliable, and efficient. Implementing congestion pricing as soon as possible will raise the critical funds we need to build elevators and escalators, modernize signals, and give New Yorkers the transit system we deserve. Every straphanger and bus rider will benefit from this program. I'm proud of the leadership shown today, and grateful that the Governor has taken this step forward.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said, “Congestion pricing, at its heart, is good policy. A reduction of vehicles in Manhattan's Congestion Relief Zone will boost the safety of our streets for all who use them all while lowering emissions and improving air quality for our city, which has been devastated by climate change in recent years. For those of us in Queens, it means more badly-needed funding for mass transit improvements that commuters have long been clamoring for. This new pricing structure strikes the right balance between affordability and practicality for our straphangers and drivers alike, and I look forward to working with Governor Hochul and all our partners to ensure that Queens receives its fair share of critical transportation funding in the years to come.”
State Senator Jeremy Cooney, Chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee said, “I’m pleased Governor Hochul is moving forward with congestion pricing to fund critical infrastructure, reduce Manhattan traffic, and advance New York’s climate goals. By cutting pricing by 40 percent, the Governor has shown she’s listening to New Yorkers and responding to rising costs. This decision also supports thousands of upstate manufacturing jobs connected to MTA capital projects, providing well-paying jobs for families in places like Rochester, Binghamton, and Plattsburgh.”
State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “Straphangers rejoice! I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for her ‘mend it, don’t end it’ approach to congestion pricing and putting our 2019 law into effect before the incoming federal administration has the opportunity to cancel it entirely. As a result, millions of New Yorkers will reap the benefits of cleaner air, fewer emissions, safer streets, ADA accessibility and more reliable and expanded service, including the Second Avenue Subway. Also, last month I released a report with ‘Gridlock’ Sam Schwartz detailing the connection between increased congestion and slower emergency vehicle response times in Manhattan, which are now the slowest on record, underscoring the dramatic impacts congestion has on public health and safety.”
State Senator Robert Jackson said, “Reducing congestion in Manhattan is essential for the health, economy, and future of New York City. At this critical moment, I fully support the Governor's decision to implement congestion pricing at a manageable rate. This marks a prudent step forward in our enduring commitment to enhance mass transit, alleviate street congestion, and bolster public health. As we face the uncertainties of a new federal administration, it is imperative that New York secures the necessary resources to safeguard and advance the primary means of transport for our working-class citizens. I am eager to collaborate on refining these plans to ensure they serve the best interests of all New Yorkers.”
State Senator Cordell Cleare said, “Congestion Pricing is the best plan to ensure that all phases of the Second Avenue Subway continue to stay on track and that necessary MTA accessibility upgrades are made throughout the 30th Senatorial District. For these reasons, I welcome the Governor's revised plan and support its immediate implementation.”
State Senator Brian Kavanagh said, “I strongly support Governor Hochul’s decision to move forward with this first-in-the-nation program to reduce traffic congestion, improve our air quality, provide sustainable funding for better and more reliable public transit, and make strides toward a more equitable transportation system. I look forward to working with our colleagues in government, the MTA, and the communities I represent, as the program takes effect, to explore improvements we can make to ensure that it is both effective and fair for all New Yorkers.”
State Senator Kristen Gonzalez said, “As a longtime supporter of climate initiatives and transportation alternatives, I am happy to see the Governor implementing congestion pricing, and I am looking forward to working with her office and my colleagues to get it right. Congestion pricing is an important step toward achieving our climate goals and giving NY and the MTA every tool they need to remain a leader in both sustainable initiatives and transportation. Thank you to the Governor and the FHWA for implementing it now.”
State Senator Andrew Gounardes said, “This is about investing in the infrastructure that working New Yorkers rely on to get to work, to school, and to all the places they need to go. This is about funding elevators at subway stations, so my elderly and disabled neighbors can access the train. This is about finally upgrading signals so Brooklynites can get to work without endless delays. By launching congestion pricing, we're making our values clear: New Yorkers deserve reliable public transit, less traffic and cleaner air. Thank you to Governor Hochul for moving forward on this important plan, which will benefit Brooklynites and all New Yorkers for generations to come.”
Assemblymember Deborah Glick said, “Governor Hochul always said that congestion pricing was paused and today's announcement indicates the Governor meant what she said. The reduction in the toll for passenger cars responds to economic concerns raised by New Yorkers, while still providing essential support to the MTA for crucial upgrades. The majority of New Yorkers go to and from work or school by mass transit and ensuring that our system runs efficiently and safely is of paramount importance. It is the consistent and reliable operation of mass transit that will encourage people to get out of their cars and reduce congestion.”
Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal said, “There’s no better time than the present to implement congestion pricing. Our antique subway signals are in desperate need of modernization, our infrastructure is begging to be climate proofed, our bus fleets are yearning to be electrified and our subway stations must be accessible to all. Luckily, the funds generated from the long-awaited program finally promises New Yorkers a 21st century public transportation system that’s worthy of the Big Apple. I’m glad that Governor Hochul is taking this incredibly important and necessary step for straphangers across the five boroughs.”
Assemblymember Harvey Epstein said, “The effects of traffic congestion are felt by all New Yorkers regardless of how they travel around the City. Traffic congestion contributes to poor air quality, increased risk of crashes, noise pollution and wasted time. I am pleased to see that congestion pricing will be moving forward in Lower Manhattan. It will decrease congestion and generate necessary revenue for the MTA.”
Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas said, “With Governor Hochul’s announcement of the congestion pricing plan at a $9 toll, we’re seeing a decisive step toward much-needed improvements in our public transportation infrastructure. This move helps close the $15 billion funding gap in the MTA’s capital plan. As a straphanger and someone who relies on public transit to get around the City, I understand the frustration of long wait times, inconsistent buses, and frequent breakdowns. Congestion pricing isn’t about penalizing drivers — it’s about modernizing our transportation system and tackling climate change. It is about clean air, safe streets and faster commutes. I’m encouraged to see Governor Hochul moving forward on this crucial initiative.”
Assemblywoman Yudelka Tapia said, “I fully support Governor Hochul’s decision to reintroduce congestion pricing with a revised, lower toll. I supported the Governor’s pause to ensure we had time to consider alternatives that align with my community’s needs. The new proposal acknowledges the financial realities faced by working New Yorkers and I’m confident this balanced plan will help ease congestion, improve air quality, and secure essential funding for our transit system, creating a stronger and more sustainable New York City for all.” “With Governor Hochul’s announcement of the congestion pricing plan at a $9 toll, we’re seeing a decisive step toward much-needed improvements in our public transportation infrastructure. This move helps close the $15 billion funding gap in the MTA’s capital plan. As a straphanger and someone who relies on public transit to get around the city, I understand the frustration of long wait times, inconsistent buses, and frequent breakdowns. Congestion pricing isn’t about penalizing drivers—it’s about modernizing our transportation system and tackling climate change. It is about clean air, safe streets, and faster commutes. I’m encouraged to see Governor Hochul moving forward on this crucial initiative.”
Assemblymember Brian Cunningham said, “My constituents ride public transit every day — they deserve high-quality subways and a world-class commute. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s focus on affordability, subway riders will see improved service and drivers will pay a significantly lower toll. This compromise is the right path forward for Brooklyn”
Assemblymember Tony Simone said, “I applaud Governor Hochul for bringing congestion pricing online at this pivotal moment for our transit system. There is not, has never been and never will be, a substitute for the funding promised through congestion pricing. Mass transit is the backbone of our city and state, which are the economic engine for the nation. This funding is critical to making our system fully accessible, improving service, delivering the infrastructure to increase residential density to combat the housing crisis, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and induce billions of dollars of investment.”
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For Immediate Release: 11/14/2024
GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: TRANSIT, ENVIRONMENTAL AND BUSINESS ADVOCATES SUPPORT GOVERNOR HOCHUL’S PLAN TO FUND TRANSIT AND PUT COMMUTERS FIRST
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a plan to begin implementing congestion pricing in New York City by early January. She outlined a 40 percent reduction in tolls for all vehicles entering the Central Business District tolling zone, which will save commuters who are driving up to $1,500 annually. The implementation of the congestion pricing program is a testament to the Governor’s commitment to reducing traffic congestion and air pollution throughout New York City. The Governor also affirmed her commitment to improving the air quality in environmental justice communities.
NYC Environment Director at Natural Resources Defense Council Eric A. Goldstein said, “Governor Hochul's announcement to give the green light to New York City's congestion pricing program is a welcome step forward that is more urgent now than ever. This strategy will slash traffic congestion in the nation’s largest central business district; cut global warming emissions and other air pollutants; and help rebuild the region’s subway, bus, and commuter rail network. The Governor’s announcement also assures that much-needed pollution-reduction funding will be flowing into environmental justice projects in the South Bronx.”
New York League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe said, “New Yorkers deserve less traffic, cleaner air, and robust investments in mass transit because we cannot drive our way out of the climate crisis. Thank you to Governor Hochul for championing this nation-leading congestion pricing program, a bold step that will reduce traffic congestion in Manhattan and improve air quality in communities across the New York metropolitan region. This pivotal initiative will generate essential funding to improve the MTA, making mass transit a more attractive, accessible choice for everyone. This is the right move for all New Yorkers—and a crucial investment in the future of our region.”
Amalgamated Transit Union New York State Legislative Conference Board President Daniel Cassella said, “The ATU has long supported the implementation of the final congestion pricing plan for the Central Business District Tolling Program, and we applaud the Governor for unpausing the plan and ensuring that the MTA has dedicated funding that will support our public transit systems. These funds are needed to help ensure that we have a safe, reliable, and robust transportation network for all New Yorkers and that we have the revenue needed to support our public transit workers. We thank the Governor for her support and leadership on this issue and look forward to working with her and the MTA to ensure that all New Yorkers have the transit system we deserve.”
Steven Rubenstein, Chairman of the Association for a Better New York Steven Rubenstein said, “Public transit makes New York City work. Everyone from our students to our CEOs has a stake in a safe, modern and reliable transit system. ABNY has supported congestion pricing for nearly two decades, and the window to seize this opportunity and make a generational investment in our subways, buses and commuter trains is fast closing. We are pleased to see Governor Hochul is putting congestion pricing back on track. Let’s get this done as if the city’s future depends upon it. Because it does.”
Environmental Defense Fund President Fred Krupp said, “It has never been more important for state leaders to take decisive action to fight climate change, safeguard our health, and invest in cleaner transportation alternatives. Implementing congestion pricing is the kind of practical, bold action our leaders must take for the long-term health and sustainability of our city and region.“
Evergreen Action Senior State Program Director Justin Balik said, “Time is of the essence for hitting the green light on congestion pricing—and today, we’re one step closer to ensuring that this nation-leading program is implemented. Congestion pricing can be a roadmap for states across the country on how to make commutes faster while reducing air pollution, and will protect New York’s legacy as a leader in the fight against climate change. We’re proud to stand alongside Governor Hochul and the coalition today as the state gets back on track to achieve its climate goals and strengthen mass transit for all New Yorkers.”
Environmental Advocates New York Executive Director Vanessa Fajans-Turner said, “We commend Governor Hochul for her decision to move forward with congestion pricing, a critical policy that will secure much-needed funding for the MTA while cutting air pollution and improving public health for New York families. This is the right path and signals that New York stands poised to be a leader in common-sense solutions that benefit all residents, uniting us in the pursuit of a healthier, more connected future. As we enter a new chapter together, it's more important than ever for New York to advance policies that prioritize transit, cleaner air, and a healthier future for our communities. This step is a significant move in that direction, and we fully support it.”
Regional Plan Association President and CEO Tom Wright said, “RPA welcomes Governor Hochul’s comprehensive plan for implementing congestion pricing as soon as possible to address the MTA’s capital funding needs. This historic step is vital for New York and will support our regional economy, a healthy transit system, and improved air quality. We look forward to working with Governor Hochul, the State Legislature and all stakeholders to advance this plan and deliver a stronger, greener and brighter future for millions of New Yorkers. Congestion pricing is a policy whose time has come.”
Brooklyn Center for Independence of the Disabled Executive Director Joe Rappaport said, “We strongly support Governor Hochul’s decision to move forward with congestion pricing today, which will bring in money for elevators and other essential transit projects by the car and truckload. Next step: the MTA must swiftly restart the 23 subway station elevator projects it put on hold in June, so it can meet its legal commitment to make transit accessible to all disabled New Yorkers.”
Partnership for New York City President and CEO Kathryn Wylde said, “Excess congestion costs our metropolitan region more than $20 billion a year as movement of goods and people is slowed by traffic. The governor’s decision to allow congestion pricing to proceed, even with a reduced toll, will benefit business and consumers across the region and is a critical component for financing a better, safer, and more reliable transit system.”
New York Building Congress President and CEO Carlo A. Scissura said, “Governor Hochul’s plan to implement congestion pricing and fund mass transit represents a vital step forward for New York and our entire regional economy. Now is the time for all stakeholders to get behind the Governor’s plan so we can get started on cleaner air, less traffic, better transit and a stronger economy for all.”
Greater NY Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Mark Jaffe said, “Congestion pricing will improve the quality of life in Manhattan for all who live, work and visit. It will encourage those who can’t afford to drive and park in Manhattan to take more affordable public transportation. Contrary to what some argue; a small daily fee for trucks and vans full of goods should not add any significant costs to the individual items actually being delivered for sale. In fact, less traffic should decrease labor time and improve the efficiencies of getting essential commodities onto the shelves. Of course we encourage those responsible for designing and spending the toll fees to not get greedy and waste the revenues raised, and we thank the Governor for modifying the congestion fees.”
Building Trades Employers' Association President & CEO Elizabeth Crowley said, “As MTA ridership returns to pre-pandemic levels and more cars crowd our streets, unpausing congestion pricing now will generate $15 billion to modernize the transit system. The Governor’s action is a crucial step to advance and rebuild our essential public transit system.”
Real Estate Board of New York President Jim Whelan said, “We applaud the Governor for instituting congestion pricing which is a vital step towards strengthening the economy. Congestion pricing will fund desperately needed mass transit improvements as well as reduce air pollution and traffic congestion.”
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For Immediate Release: 11/14/2024
GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL
VIDEO, AUDIO, PHOTOS & RUSH TRANSCRIPT: PUTTING COMMUTERS FIRST, KEEPING COSTS DOWN: GOVERNOR HOCHUL UNVEILS PLANS FOR FUTURE OF TRANSIT AND TRAFFIC IN NEW YORK CITY, INCLUDING A 40 PERCENT REDUCTION IN CONGESTION PRICING TOLLS
Governor Hochul: “From day one, I have made affordability for New York families a top priority. I always have, and I always will, fight to put more money in the pockets of everyday New Yorkers. That's why back in June, I stood up on behalf of hardworking families and simply said no. No to a new $15 congestion toll that at that particular time was just too much. Too many people were worrying about high costs. Groceries, rent, child care. These are real challenges for our families and launching a toll that high really would have hurt a working mom or working dad trying to make ends meet.”
Hochul: “Congestion pricing is fundamentally about meeting three critical objectives. Ensuring our commuters can rely on safe subways and commuter trains now, and into the future, ensuring we can decongest our clogged streets. Improving the quality of life for residents, the safety of pedestrians and access for emergency vehicles. And ensuring we reduce vehicle emissions to enhance our air quality.”
Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a plan to begin implementing congestion pricing in New York City by early January. In keeping with her promise to lower the cost of tolls from $15, the Governor’s plan features a 40 percent reduction in all tolls for vehicles entering the City’s Central Business District (CBD), saving commuters up to $1,500 per year. That plan also includes new tools to reduce congestion and air pollution in communities citywide – all of which will ensure that the plan achieves the goals of congestion pricing, including $15 billion in mass transit funding to support the MTA’s current Capital Program. Additionally, Governor Hochul committed to funding the proposed 2025-2029 MTA Capital Plan that was approved by the MTA Board in September – the largest capital plan for transit in New York State history.
VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).
AUDIO: The Governor's remarks are available in audio form here.
PHOTOS: The Governor's Flickr page will post photos of the event here.
A rush transcript of the Governor's remarks is available below:
Welcome. Welcome. First, let me acknowledge the members of my extraordinary cabinet and senior team, Karen Keogh, the Secretary to the Governor. Kathryn Garcia, our Director of State Operations. Stacy Lynch, the Chief of Staff. Blake Washington, our Budget Director. Brian Mahanna, our Counsel. And Anthony Hogrebe, our Communications Director. I want to applaud all of them for their incredible work.
And my incredible Commissioner of DOT, Marie Therese Dominguez, thank you for all you do for us. Jackie Bray, our Commissioner of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. And of course, I want to thank Janno Lieber for his leadership at the MTA at a time when it is direly needed. So thank you to Janno Lieber as well.
A special thanks to my partner in state government, partners Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Speaker Carl Heastie and the members of the Senate and the Assembly. I'm grateful for all of them here today.
And of course, representation from the City of New York, Meera Joshi. I want to thank our Deputy Mayor for joining us here today as well, and New York City Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez as well. So, welcome to all of them.
And to all of our staunch advocates, our partners on the ground who were supportive during this process. From day one, I have made affordability for New York families a top priority. I always have, and I always will, fight to put more money in the pockets of everyday New Yorkers.
That's why back in June, I stood up on behalf of hardworking families and simply said no. No to a new $15 congestion toll that at that particular time was just too much. Too many people were worrying about high costs. Groceries, rent, child care. These are real challenges for our families and launching a toll that high really would have hurt a working mom or working dad trying to make ends meet. Especially someone driving in from a transportation desert, or far from outside the center of the city. As governor, it is my job to make decisions that take into account the needs of all working New Yorkers.
So I made the decision to put the congestion pricing program on pause, while we devise a different path forward. State law requires that congestion pricing simultaneously raise money for the MTA and drive down traffic congestion. These are important priorities, but I believe that no New Yorker should have to pay a penny more than absolutely necessary to achieve these goals. And $15 was too much.
And I'm proud to announce we have found a path to fund the MTA, reduce congestion, and keep millions of dollars in the pockets of our commuters. Under this plan, the MTA will implement a congestion pricing plan with a reduced daytime toll of $9 beginning in January. You heard that correctly.
It was $15 before, and now it is $9. That is a 40 percent reduction. This lower toll will save daily commuters nearly $1,500 annually. And that kind of money makes a big difference for our families. And there will be further discounts, for low income New Yorkers, car owners who make less than $50,000 a year will get a 50 percent discount on every toll after their 10th toll on the month.
In addition, after 9 p. m., the toll is discounted even further. This is to encourage nighttime deliveries in particular and help reduce congestion during the daytime hours. Here's the most critical part. This $9 daytime toll is enough to secure the $15 billion in MTA funding that congestion pricing was intended to support.
We're still getting the $15 billion to fund the MTA and drivers are paying $6 less. This lower toll will still allow us to accomplish all, and I mean all, of the goals of congestion pricing. New modern signals, the long awaited 2nd Avenue subway, new electric buses, elevators. And this will generate major investments for our suburban commuters as well, on top of the $800 million we've already invested to boost the LIRR service by 40 percent, and the work that Metro North is doing across Westchester, Dutchess, and Putnam Counties.
We'll also begin to drive down gridlock and the emissions as intended, and we'll deliver major environmental improvements for places like the Bronx. So that lower income communities will not only benefit from improved public transit service, but also cleaner air. And today, I'm directing the MTA to make major service enhancements to at least 23 bus routes in the outer boroughs. This would mean running buses more frequently along those routes.
Now, this is all an acknowledgement, as we know, that the MTA is absolutely vital for our region's economy. Without it, people can't get to work, children can't get to school – and our state would grind to a halt. Years and years of disinvestment and underinvestment in the MTA by previous administrations ends today.
Yes, it's hard; but that's also why I'm announcing my strong support for the MTA's 2025-2029 Capital Plan. To ignore the challenge of funding improvements to a hundred-year-old aging infrastructure would be nothing but an abdication of my duties as Governor. And I will not do that.
The Capital Plan will help fund projects that I launched, such as the Interborough Express. This project alone will save commuters between Brooklyn and Queens at least 30 minutes each way. It's a perfect example of our vision to build a safe, reliable, high performing transit system that New Yorkers deserve. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber will discuss more of the particulars of the Capital Plan in a moment.
And I'm directing you to tune into the MTA also to improve efficiencies, drive significant cost savings to protect New York taxpayers. And we'll continue to work closely with our federal, state legislators, and our city partners to close any gaps in our budget negotiations later in the year – just as we did last year when I structured a funding plan to keep the MTA from going off the fiscal cliff, yet another example of my strong commitment to public transit. And I'll continue insisting upon efficiencies and savings in the MTA in the years ahead.
Let me close with this. Congestion pricing is fundamentally about meeting three critical objectives. Ensuring our commuters can rely on safe subways and commuter trains now, and into the future, ensuring we can decongest our clogged streets. Improving the quality of life for residents, the safety of pedestrians and access for emergency vehicles. And ensuring we reduce vehicle emissions to enhance our air quality.
We know our downstate businesses and our economy depend on the MTA to transport more than six million commuters every single day. Safeguarding the long term viability of our subway and commuter rails, the safety of our streets, the health of our environment and the strength of our economy – these are all hard to do, but they're necessary.
And as New York City enters into a realm where no other American city has gone before, recall that the journey was first proposed decades ago. And this has been the law of our state for the last five years.
When I announced the pause, I spoke about working New Yorkers – hardworking New Yorkers. And I said I would fight to put as much money back in their pockets as I possibly could. Some skeptics predict we'd never find a path. There are lower tolls while still addressing congestion and the important funding of public transit that millions of New Yorkers rely on.
But that's exactly what we did. It was a challenge, but as a result New Yorkers will benefit from millions of dollars in reduced costs. That's my commitment to New Yorkers.
And I might not always take the easy path, but I'll always take the right path for the people of this great state – now and into the future.