Drivers in a major US city now face a $9 per day congestion fee, which took effect over the weekend.
This is despite efforts in a recent legal battle to stop the controversial charge.
3
3
3
New congestion rates went into effect in New York City on Sunday, meaning drivers will now have to pay $9 to get to the busiest parts of the city during rush hours.
This tally came in an attempt to reduce traffic in the city, as well as raise money for public transportation infrastructure.
But they have angered many drivers, while advocacy groups have warned that the measures could disproportionately affect low-income New Yorkers and small businesses.
new Jersey She even filed a request for an injunction, asking for a temporary restraining order on the charge — arguing that it would cause harm to her residents, especially those who live near the Georges River. Washington Bridge.
According to ABC7, they believed drivers would be looking to avoid the new fees in Lincoln and Holland tunnels, resulting in increased traffic on the GWB.
But a federal judge ultimately denied the injunction, allowing the congestion pricing plan to move forward.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy's office said it intends to appeal the ruling.
“We've been studying this issue for five years, and it only takes about five minutes if you're in midtown Manhattan to see this,” Janno Lieber, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, told reporters on Friday. New York “He has a real traffic problem.”
The $9 surcharge covers every street and local street in Manhattan at or below 60th Street, at the south end of Central Park.
Trucks face the highest fees during peak hours; They range from $14.40 to $21.60, depending on size.
But driving on certain major roads through Manhattan will allow users to avoid tolls.
These roads include FDR Drive and West Side Highway, which skirt the sides of the island.
The Battery Park Underpass, which connects FDR Drive and the West Side Highway at the southern tip of Manhattan, is also exempt.
Passengers who use ride-sharing appslike Uber and Lyft, won't escape fees either, with an additional $1.50 fee added per ride, while New York Yellow taxis will add a $0.75 fee per trip.
The highest fees will apply between 5am and 9pm on weekdays and between 9am and 9pm on weekends, while fees will be 75% cheaper outside of peak hours.
Most fees will be collected through the E-ZPass system, where drivers who do not have an E-ZPass will be mailed a bill and forced to pay a higher rate.
There are exceptions to congestion pricing, which includes a free ticket for emergency vehicles, specialized city vehicles, buses on regular public routes or city school contracts.
Moreover, an exemption will also be given to vehicles carrying disabled passengers and some low-income passengers.
In addition, low-income drivers are eligible for… tax Credits and further discounts.
