Congestion pricing could be revisited; Skoufis, Brabenec blast proposal

Governor Kathy Hochul is taking steps to potentially revive controversial MTA congestion pricing and local elected officials are blasting her for contemplating the move.

Facing criticism, Hochul deep-sixed the idea of a $15 toll for commuters entering some parts of Manhattan in June. However, according to a published report, the Governor may try to implement congestion pricing before President-elect Donald Trump, who opposes the extra toll, takes office.

The proposed new toll would be $9 daily for commuters.

“Whether $9 or $15, this new toll will pose a severe hardship to many working-class New Yorkers who have little to no rail alternative,” Senator James Skoufis (D-Orange County) said. “Simply rearranging the congestion pricing deck chairs on the Titanic is an unacceptable outcome, particularly following the recent election results that demonstrated voters demand a more responsive, working-class-oriented Democratic Party,” he said.

Cars entering Manhattan below 60th Street would be charged a once-daily toll of $9 during peak hours under the plan.