Reps. Pat Ryan and Mike Lawler are demanding that the MTA expands the congestion pricing program to include discounts for Metro North and Long Island Railroad rides. They sent a letter to MTA chair Janno Lieber criticizing the temporary discount plan that only applies to trips within the five boroughs of New York City. The lawmakers argue that the MTA should not prioritize the city over other areas it serves.
The congestion pricing plan, set to go into effect on June 30, will require drivers to pay $15 to enter Manhattan below 60th Street. In an effort to address some of the backlash against the toll, the MTA proposed discounted monthly transit passes for LIRR and Metro North riders, but these discounts only apply to trips within the city. The 10% discount is scheduled to begin the day after the congestion pricing plan takes effect, pending approval by the MTA board.
Reps. Ryan and Lawler criticized the MTA for implementing a plan that they believe is unfair and does not take into account the concerns of residents in the northern suburbs of New York. They argue that offering discounts exclusively to New York City residents is unfair to families in the Hudson Valley and Long Island. Lawler specifically mentioned the lack of improvements in service for their communities, calling congestion pricing a cash grab at the expense of residents outside of the city.
Long Island Rep. Anthony D’Esposito also expressed his disappointment in the MTA for providing fare relief to New York City residents while neglecting Long Islanders. Supporters of the congestion pricing plan believe that it will help reduce traffic in Manhattan, decrease pollution, and provide much-needed funding for the MTA. MTA Chair Janno Lieber emphasized the benefits of the plan, including less traffic, cleaner air, safer streets, and improved transit options.
Despite the MTA’s plans to implement congestion pricing on June 30, the plan is facing legal challenges from Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossela, the United Federation of Teachers, and various New York lawmakers. Several Democrats have joined the opposition to the plan, and New Jersey has also filed a lawsuit in federal court. Despite these challenges, the MTA is moving forward with its implementation of congestion pricing, with the goal of improving transportation and reducing congestion in Manhattan.
