Rokland County Executive Ed Day has condemned Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to reinstate Congestion Pricing in New York City, calling the move “insulting to Rocklanders” and highlighting the economic strain it places on local families already grappling with rising costs.
Day criticized the governor for delaying the implementation of the charge until after the recent election, describing it as a “clear, calculated move.” He noted that the policy exacerbates financial challenges for Rockland residents, who have faced nearly two years of inflation, high gas prices, and soaring interest rates.
Approximately 4,000 Rockland residents commute to New York City’s Central Business District daily, many of whom are first responders. Yet, they lack a direct, one-seat-ride transit option and face what Day describes as unfair financial burdens. He pointed to the county’s $40 million annual “value gap”—the difference between what Rockland pays into the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and what it receives in services—as evidence of systemic inequity.
Day also challenged the justification for Congestion Pricing, arguing that New York City’s population has decreased by over 6% since the pandemic, with only 60% of the workforce returning to full-time office roles. He cited MTA data showing that for-hire vehicles constitute the majority of traffic in the Central Business District, questioning whether congestion has truly worsened since pre-pandemic times.
“This policy is clearly not about addressing congestion but rather about increasing revenue to cover MTA budget shortfalls,” Day asserted, adding that the charge does not solve the agency’s fiscal challenges.
Day praised the efforts of officials opposing the measure, including Senator Bill Weber, who is advocating for a permanent repeal of Congestion Pricing. Weber has introduced legislation to increase the Dutchess, Orange, and Rockland Fund Allocations (DORF) for mass transit improvements from $2 million to $10 million. Another proposal would provide rebates for Rockland residents.
Calling for the elimination of Congestion Pricing, Day reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fighting the policy through legal action alongside government allies. “Governor Hochul should eliminate Congestion Pricing entirely,” he said. “We will continue to protect the hardworking Rocklanders we represent from this unnecessary expense.”