NYC Congestion Pricing Earns Nearly $50 Million in First Month Amid Federal Review

New York City's congestion pricing toll has generated close to $50 million in its first month of operation, according to city officials. This was announced on Monday as the Trump administration is taking steps to halt this pioneering initiative.

From the program's launch on January 5 through January 31, the tolls amassed a total of $48.66 million, as reported by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). The MTA oversees the city's transportation networks, including subways, bridges, and commuter rail services.

When accounting for operational expenses, the net revenue during this month was approximately $37.5 million. The MTA anticipates that by the end of the year, the program will bring in about $500 million in net revenue, consistent with initial forecasts.

MTA Chief Financial Officer Kevin Willens expressed confidence in the program's performance, stating, "With an initial performance in line with projections, we can confidently move forward with projects that rely on funds from the Congestion Relief Zone. We look forward to similar results in the months ahead."

However, the announcement comes after the U.S. Department of Transportation revealed that it has withdrawn federal approval of the congestion pricing plan, following a review requested by President Donald Trump. According to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the review concluded that the project "exceeds the authority authorized by Congress" as per the Federal Highway Administration's Value Pricing Pilot Program.

In reaction to the federal government's move, Trump celebrated on his social media platform, declaring, "CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!" The MTA, in response, has promptly challenged the Trump administration's decision in federal court, seeking a ruling to maintain the tolls until a court order is issued. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber stated that the DOT's action is "not proper."

On CBS News, Duffy labeled the congestion pricing plan "unfair," while saying he is open to some form of congestion pricing. He also questioned the toll rates established for the city.

The congestion pricing plan imposes charges on passenger vehicles amounting to $9 for access to Manhattan below 60th Street during peak hours. The rates for small trucks and charter buses are set at $14.40, while large trucks and tour buses incur charges of $21.60.

MTA findings indicate that 68% of the revenue generated in January was from passenger vehicles, 22% from taxis and for-hire vehicles, 9% from trucks, and 1% from buses and motorcycles. New York officials have highlighted the program's success in alleviating traffic congestion, with Governor Hochul noting a "dramatic drop" in congestion since the initiative began.

NYC, congestion, pricing