Lawmakers from New York’s northern suburbs are demanding that the MTA expand their congestion pricing-related program to discount Metro North and Long Island Railroad rides. Reps. Pat Ryan and Mike Lawler sent a letter to MTA chair Janno Lieber criticizing the temporary transit discount plan that only applies to trips within the five boroughs of New York City. They argue that the MTA should serve all communities, not just those in the city.
The MTA’s congestion pricing plan, set to start on June 30, will require drivers to pay a $15 toll to enter Manhattan below 60th Street. To help ease some of the backlash from this toll, the MTA is introducing discounted monthly transit passes for the LIRR and Metro North, but these discounts are limited to trips within the city. Lawmakers are upset that residents outside of the five boroughs are being left out of these discounts, calling it unfair and a cash grab by the MTA at the expense of other communities.
Congressmen Ryan and Lawler criticized the MTA for giving preferential treatment to New York City residents while leaving Long Islanders at a disadvantage. They argue that congestion pricing is not benefiting all communities and is simply a way for the MTA and NYC to make money. Lawmakers are demanding that the MTA extend the discounts north to include residents of the Hudson Valley in order to provide fair treatment to all commuters.
Proponents of the congestion pricing plan believe that it will help reduce traffic in Manhattan, lower pollution levels, and provide much-needed funds for the MTA. MTA Chair Janno Lieber defended the plan, citing years of analysis and public input that have gone into its development. However, the plan still faces legal challenges from Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossela, the United Federation of Teachers, and several New York lawmakers who are trying to overturn it. New Jersey has also filed a lawsuit in federal court against the plan.
Despite the legal challenges, the MTA is moving forward with the congestion pricing plan set to begin on June 30. The plan has been met with criticism from lawmakers representing communities outside of the five boroughs who feel that they are being unfairly targeted and excluded from the benefits of the discounted transit passes. The debate over congestion pricing continues as various groups and lawmakers voice their concerns and opposition to the plan, while others argue that it is a necessary step to address traffic congestion and pollution in Manhattan.
