New York: The first congestion charge scheme in New York City has officially launched, imposing fees of up to $9 per day for car drivers, with higher rates for trucks and buses.
The charge applies to an area south of Central Park, including major landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Wall Street.
Janno Lieber, CEO of the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) said that, ‘The system in operation since midnight,” and that covers 400 lanes and utilizes over 1,400 cameras, 110 detection points, and 800 signs to monitor traffic.
The scheme is intended to alleviate the city’s chronic congestion and raise funds for the public transportation network.
The idea for the congestion charge was first proposed by New York state Governor Kathy Hochul two years ago but faced delays and revisions after complaints from commuters and businesses.
The final plan revives a previously paused proposal from June, following concerns about unintended consequences. The charge for most drivers will be $9 per day during peak hours and $2.25 during off-peak hours.
Small trucks and non-commuter buses will pay $14.40, while larger trucks and tourist buses face a $21.60 fee.
Despite the city’s efforts, the scheme has faced considerable opposition. Among the loudest critics is President-elect Donald Trump, a native New Yorker, who has vowed to cancel the charge when he takes office.
Other critics, including local Republican Congressman Mike Lawler, have called the scheme a ‘cash grab.’ New Jersey officials also attempted to block the charge, citing environmental concerns, but their legal challenge was denied.
In the face of such resistance, New York City’s congestion charge seeks to address its severe traffic congestion, with the city having been ranked as the world’s most-congested urban area for two consecutive years.
Traffic in downtown Manhattan during peak hours has been recorded at speeds of just 11mph (17km/h). With cameras now monitoring the roads, drivers will soon see toll charges on their E-Z Pass statements.
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