New York Motorists Prepare Their Pockets For Yet More Costs
In recent years, cities worldwide, including those in the US, have expanded bike lanes and pedestrian areas. Some cities have even closed off entire streets to motorized traffic, allowing for outdoor dining, especially during the pandemic. Some of these changes have become permanent, creating more walkable streets. Now, certain areas of New York City may cost a minimum of $9 just to drive through in a single day.
One enduring and politically charged solution has been implementing supply and demand economics, such as charging fees for driving on congested city streets. In New York City, a plan to impose congestion pricing in the South Central Business District below 60th Street was passed by the state legislature in 2019. However, it was delayed until recently when it received final approval from the Federal Highway Administration. The congestion pricing plan, known as the Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP), is expected to start in spring next year, 26 years after Singapore launched the world’s first congestion pricing system.
The recent FHWA approval signifies a Finding of No Significant Impact, allowing the project sponsors to proceed with their application for a Value Pricing Pilot Program from the federal agency.
The plan will charge drivers using 60th Street or below a fee ranging from $9 to $23. The exact pricing structure is still being determined. Different scenarios have been considered, including lower fees during off-peak hours and overnight charges. The state legislation allows for a single charge per vehicle per day. Certain highways below 60th Street, such as FDR Drive, the West Side Highway, and parts of the Battery Park Underpass and Hugh Carey (Brooklyn-Battery) tunnel, will be exempt from the charges.
TransCore, a company, has been contracted to build the necessary equipment for charging drivers. The specific method, whether it involves transponders inside vehicles or license plate readers, has yet to be disclosed.
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