The battle over New York City’s congestion pricing plan is heating up, and with legal challenges from the Trump administration, it could be months—or even years—before there’s a final decision. Meanwhile, residents and commuters across the Tri-State Area are split on whether this initiative should stay or go. While some believe it’s helping ease traffic and improve commute times, others argue the added costs are just too much to handle.
Commuters Split on the Costs and Benefits
For many New Yorkers, congestion pricing is a mixed bag. Some drivers have reluctantly accepted the program, admitting that traffic congestion has reduced and commute times have improved. A recent poll surveying 1,200 New Yorkers found that 6 out of 10 support keeping the congestion pricing plan in place.
Leo Henriquez, a Bronx resident who commutes to New Jersey, supports the pricing plan, saying that shorter commute times have improved his quality of life.
“I’ve lived here for more than 20 years, and traffic is a huge problem—especially during holidays or busy weekends,” Henriquez said.
But not everyone is on board. Thomas Gee, from Rockland County, feels the extra $9 toll is too much, especially when combined with other expenses like city taxes, federal taxes, and state taxes.
“Even if you’re making $90,000 a year, you can’t afford a house with all these added costs,” Gee said.
Public Transport Users More Supportive
For those who rely on public transportation, congestion pricing often feels like a step in the right direction. A restaurant worker who commutes by subway supported the toll, highlighting that the extra funds could help improve the city’s public transportation services.
“If the money is being used to upgrade the system, then it’s a good idea,” he said.
New Jersey Residents Feel Unfairly Targeted
Many New Jersey commuters, like Alejandro Diaz from Fort Lee, argue that they already contribute significantly to New York’s economy and shouldn’t have to pay extra to drive into the city.
“It’s expensive, and I don’t see the city improving much with all this extra money,” Diaz said.
Business Owners Face Mixed Outcomes
The impact of congestion pricing isn’t just affecting commuters—it’s hitting businesses too. Stathis Antonakopoulos, owner of Carnegie Diner with locations in both New Jersey and Manhattan, has seen contrasting results.
- In Manhattan, weekday dinner business has dropped since the start of congestion pricing as fewer drivers from outside the city are coming into Midtown.
- In Secaucus, New Jersey, his diner saw a 10% rise in weekday dinner sales, as more commuters are choosing to dine closer to home rather than head into the city.
Antonakopoulos also noted a personal upside:
“Coming into the city in the mornings has been a blessing, with significantly faster commutes,” he said.
However, the $9 daily toll for delivery drivers and suppliers adds up quickly, increasing the cost of doing business in New York City.
What’s Next for Congestion Pricing?
With legal battles ongoing and public opinion divided, the future of congestion pricing remains uncertain. While some see it as a much-needed measure to reduce traffic and fund improvements for public transportation, others view it as just another burden on working-class families and businesses.
One thing is clear: until a final decision is reached, residents, commuters, and businesses will continue to adapt—and debate—the effects of this controversial policy.
