New York

Transit Activists Split on NYC Congestion Pricing as Court Hearing Looms

While supporters say the $15 tolls can ease traffic, cut emissions, and raise revenue, opponents say it is unfair because poorer people would be priced out.
Transit Activists Split on NYC Congestion Pricing as Court Hearing Looms
Traffic congestion on Second Avenue after merging from the Queensborough Bridge in New York City. Benjamin Chasteen/The Epoch Times
Michael Washburn
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NEW YORK CITY–As congestion pricing heads to court, New Yorkers have expressed divergent views on the policy of charging drivers $15 tolls when they enter Manhattan below 60th Street.

The stated purpose of congestion pricing is to alleviate rush hour traffic while raising money for the city to qualify for the issuance of bonds that supporters say are critical for far-reaching upgrades and renovations of Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) systems and facilities. Yet another goal is ecological: to cut carbon emissions and keep New York City’s air breathable.

Michael Washburn
Michael Washburn
Reporter
Michael Washburn is a New York-based reporter who covers U.S. and China-related topics for The Epoch Times. He has a background in legal and financial journalism, and also writes about arts and culture. Additionally, he is the host of the weekly podcast Reading the Globe. His books include “The Uprooted and Other Stories,” “When We're Grownups,” and “Stranger, Stranger.”
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