Hochul Revives Congestion Pricing Plan in NYC

New York Governor Kathy Hochul is moving to revive the congestion pricing plan for vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street, initially set to launch last spring but paused due to concerns over its impact on the economy during the pandemic. The revised toll is expected to be reduced from $15 to $9 and is aimed at generating revenue for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's capital improvement plan. With President-elect Donald Trump pledging to terminate the plan upon taking office, Hochul is racing to implement it before January 20. Critics, including both Republicans and some Democrats, have voiced strong opposition, labeling it a tax that will burden middle-class New Yorkers. Advocates for the plan argue it is necessary to alleviate traffic congestion and fund public transit improvements. The situation remains contentious, with potential legal and political challenges ahead.