President Donald Trump is reportedly moving closer to revoking New York City’s controversial congestion pricing plan, a policy aimed at reducing traffic and raising funds for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). While it remains legally unclear whether Trump has the authority to undo the plan now that it is in effect, his involvement is already creating uncertainty over the future of the tolling system.
Republicans Push to End Congestion Pricing
Republican Rep. Mike Lawler, a vocal critic of the plan, confirmed his ongoing discussions with Trump and expressed confidence in the president’s intentions.
“I’ve spoken to the president several times now about congestion pricing. He’s made it very clear he agrees with me that it’s a disaster for New York, that it is nothing more than a scam,” Lawler said.
Trump echoed this sentiment in an interview with the New York Post, stating that he plans to use the Department of Transportation (DOT) to revoke the federal approvals granted by the Biden administration.
“We believe the Federal Highway Administration has the authority to revoke the approvals, especially since the Biden administration gave the green light without conducting a full environmental review,” Lawler added.
Hochul Defends Congestion Pricing Amid Negotiations
Despite Trump’s push to end the program, Gov. Kathy Hochul remains optimistic about reaching a compromise. A spokesperson for Hochul stated that she has had “several productive calls with President Trump” and emphasized that congestion pricing has been successful in reducing traffic and improving travel times.
Hochul has also engaged with federal officials beyond Trump to ensure the program continues to support the MTA’s financial stability.
Congestion Pricing Is Delivering Results, Say Officials
Supporters of the plan, including Ben Furnas of Transportation Alternatives, argue that the data proves the system is working.
“More people are coming into Manhattan to shop, and the Broadway community is seeing increased ticket sales year over year,” Furnas said. “There’s life in the streets of Manhattan, and congestion pricing hasn’t deterred people from visiting the city.”
The MTA recently released a report showing significant improvements in travel times and public transit usage:
- Hudson and East River crossings: At least 10% faster travel times compared to January of the previous year.
- Holland Tunnel: A 48% reduction in morning commute times.
- Williamsburg and Queensboro Bridges: Both saw 30% faster trips.
- Public Transit Usage: Increased ridership on subways and buses.
These improvements have contributed to widespread public support. A Morning Consult poll of 1,200 registered New York voters found that 6 out of 10 support continuing congestion pricing, with many citing faster travel and reduced traffic as major benefits.
Bike Lanes Could Be Next on Trump’s Chopping Block
In addition to congestion pricing, Trump is reportedly considering removing bike lanes, which he and Lawler argue have contributed to traffic congestion.
“By taking away precious roadway, you’re narrowing the lanes and forcing people into new traffic patterns,” Lawler said.
However, advocates like Furnas pushed back, emphasizing the role of bike lanes in improving street safety and alternative transportation.
“Bike lanes make it safer to get around without a car and reduce congestion by offering more transit options,” Furnas said.
What’s Next?
As Trump continues talks with Hochul and federal officials, the fate of congestion pricing and other transportation policies hangs in the balance. Hochul is reportedly seeking a negotiated solution to preserve the plan’s benefits while addressing concerns raised by critics.
With sentiment strongly in favor of continuing the policy, Hochul’s ongoing discussions with Trump could determine whether New Yorkers will see further improvements—or chaos—in the city’s transportation system.
