Congestion Pricing Environmental Assessment Lists Major Benefits of New Program

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today released an environmental assessment of its planned congestion pricing program. The study, conducted by the Federal Highway Administration, confirms several pricing scenarios will meet funding guidelines to improve the public transportation system in New York City.   

Congestion pricing, a program that will charge vehicles coming into Manhattan’s central business district, will reduce traffic on busy roads and generate up to $1 billion annually to modernize public transit throughout the city. The MTA will hold six public virtual hearings at the end of the month to solicit feedback about the initiative’s implementation.

“This landmark assessment confirms congestion pricing can fund a more modern, sustainable and reliable public transportation system. Along with less traffic, New York residents and commuters will be able to get on the move faster and more efficiently.”

• Mary Barber, Director, State Affairs, Environmental Defense Fund