NYC Congestion Pricing: A Comprehensive Guide
Starting January 5th, 2025, New York City will implement congestion pricing, becoming the first major US metropolis to do so. This initiative aims to alleviate traffic, reduce pollution, and fund public transit improvements.
Key Details:
When does it start? Sunday, January 5th, 2025.
Where is the congestion zone? The toll applies to vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street (near Central Park). The FDR and West Side Highways are excluded.
<img src="https://images.foxtv.com/static.fox5ny.com/www.fox5ny.com/content/uploads/2024/01/932/524/FS-Congestiion-Price-Map-REV-4-.png?ve=1&tl=1" alt="NYC Congestion Pricing Zone Map">How much will it cost?
- Most vehicles: $9 (peak hours)
- Trucks: $14.40-$21.60 (peak hours)
- Rideshares (Uber/Lyft): Additional $1.50 per ride
- Taxis: Additional $0.75 per ride
Tolls are 75% cheaper outside peak hours (5 AM-9 PM weekdays, 9 AM-9 PM weekends).
How will it work?
Tolls are primarily collected via E-ZPass. Drivers without E-ZPass will receive a bill at a higher rate.
Who is exempt?
- Emergency vehicles
- Certain city vehicles
- Buses with regular public routes or city school contracts
- Vehicles carrying disabled people
- Certain low-income commuters (eligible for discounts and tax credits)
The Big Picture:
Congestion pricing is intended to curb traffic congestion and air pollution in Manhattan while generating revenue for public transportation upgrades. The program follows models successfully implemented in cities worldwide, such as London and Stockholm.
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