Starting tomorrow, Sunday, January 5, congestion pricing officially goes into effect in New York City, marking a significant change in travel costs for drivers entering Manhattan’s central business district (below 60th Street). Here’s what Rockland County residents need to know about the new tolling program and how it might impact your commute or travel plans.
What Is Congestion Pricing?
Congestion pricing is a tolling system designed to reduce traffic congestion and fund public transportation improvements. Drivers entering Manhattan’s most congested areas will now face additional tolls during specific hours.
Who Will Be Affected?
Anyone driving into Manhattan below 60th Street, whether for work, leisure, or other purposes, will be required to pay the congestion pricing toll. This includes residents of Rockland County traveling via the George Washington Bridge, Lincoln Tunnel, or Holland Tunnel.
How Much Will It Cost?
The exact toll amount varies based on the time of day and vehicle type. As of now:
- Peak hours (6 AM–8 PM): Approximately $9
- Off-peak hours: Reduced rates (around $2.25)
- Overnight hours (12 AM–6 AM): Lowest rates (approximately $2.25)
Drivers using E-ZPass will benefit from slightly discounted rates compared to those paying by mail.
Exemptions and Discounts
Certain exemptions and discounts are in place for:
- Emergency vehicles
- Vehicles transporting individuals with disabilities
- Low-income residents of the affected areas who meet specific criteria
However, these exemptions do not typically extend to Rockland County residents.
Impact on Rockland County Commuters
For many in Rockland County, congestion pricing will add a new expense to daily commutes. Here are a few tips to help mitigate the impact:
- Public Transit Alternatives: Consider using NJ Transit, Metro-North, or other public transportation options. Check schedules and fares to plan your trip effectively.
- Carpooling: Share rides with neighbors or colleagues to split the cost of tolls.
- Workplace Flexibility: If possible, explore options for remote work or staggered schedules to avoid peak toll hours.
Where Does the Money Go?
Revenue from congestion pricing is earmarked for improving New York City’s transit infrastructure, including subways, buses, and commuter rail systems. Advocates believe the program will lead to long-term benefits for the region, but some drivers remain concerned about affordability and fairness.
Stay Informed
As congestion pricing rolls out, updates and adjustments are likely. Monitor local news and the official MTA website for real-time information on toll rates and exemptions.
For further questions or concerns, Rockland County residents can contact the MTA’s Congestion Pricing Hotline or visit MTA.info.
Prepare for changes tomorrow, and plan ahead to ensure your travel into the city remains as smooth as possible.
Nowhere in the article above does it say that you need to get off the West Side Highway or the FDR Drive to be charged. If you go South past 60th Street but continue to Brooklyn or come North and continue straight, you wont be charged.
What about going in to the city or leaving via the Lincoln or Holland tunnels? You end up on the streets of Manhattan so does that mean you get charged the extra toll when using those tunnels?
Yes