The Trump administration has initiated a legal move to terminate New York City’s recently implemented congestion pricing program, which imposes a $9 toll on vehicles entering Manhattan south of Central Park during peak hours. This program, designed to alleviate traffic congestion and fund public transit improvements, was launched in early January after years of planning and legal hurdles.
In a formal letter to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the withdrawal of federal approval for the congestion pricing scheme, labeling it “a slap in the face to working-class Americans and small business owners.” Duffy argued that the toll disproportionately burdens drivers who have already contributed to highway maintenance through gas taxes and other fees, claiming that it lacks equitable alternatives for commuters.
Governor Hochul has publicly opposed this decision, asserting that it undermines state sovereignty and the rule of law. In her response, she emphasized that “we are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king,” indicating her intent to challenge the federal government’s authority in court. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) swiftly filed a lawsuit in federal court to contest the termination of the program, arguing that it has already led to significant reductions in traffic congestion and improved travel times for all road users.
Legal experts have raised questions about the legality of the federal government’s actions, suggesting that the MTA’s case may be strengthened by the program’s successful implementation and its environmental benefits. The ongoing legal battle is set against a backdrop of broader discussions about transportation policy and urban planning in one of America’s largest cities.
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