New York City Sees 17.6M Fewer Vehicles Enter Congestion Zone Since Pricing Launch

Since the launch of New York City's congestion pricing program in January, the number of vehicles entering Manhattan's congestion zone has dropped by nearly 17.6 million, or 12%, signaling a significant reduction in traffic and gridlock. Gov. Kathy Hochul praised the program as transformational, citing safer streets, faster commutes, and increased transit ridership, with subway and bus use rising by 9% and 13% respectively. Travel times have improved notably on major crossings, including the Holland Tunnel (36% faster), Brooklyn Bridge (13% faster), and Lincoln Tunnel (10% faster), while traffic injuries and crashes in the zone have decreased by 15% and 14%. Despite opposition from the federal government and ongoing court challenges, Hochul remains firm that the congestion pricing cameras will stay operational. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority plans to use the revenue generated to fund transit upgrades, although it is proposing a fare increase from $2.90 to $3, with public hearings currently underway. The program's benefits in reducing traffic and supporting mass transit improvements highlight its growing impact on New York City's transportation landscape.