Now that congestion pricing is in effect, drivers are discovering a quirk of the Queensboro Bridge that tolls them even if they don’t want to enter the zone south of 60th Street – and they’re furious.
Read the full article at Gothamist
Summary of Frustration Among Queensboro Bridge Drivers Due to NYC Congestion Pricing Toll
Quick Overview
The implementation of NYC’s congestion pricing toll has sparked significant frustration among drivers using the Queensboro Bridge. Many are voicing concerns over being charged despite not intending to enter the toll zone, highlighting a perceived unfairness in the tolling system.
Key Points
- Tolling Mechanism: Drivers crossing the Queensboro Bridge are charged a $9 daytime toll even if their destination is outside the congestion zone, primarily due to the bridge’s roadway layout.
- Public Frustration: Numerous drivers, including Jonathan Kahn, have expressed their anger over the tolling system, describing it as deceptive and unfair.
- Impact on Traffic: Preliminary data indicates a decrease of 43,000 vehicles on Manhattan roads each weekday since the tolls were enacted.
- Political Response: Public Advocate Jumaane Williams has called for amendments to the tolling system, citing complaints from constituents and suggesting better signage and toll adjustments.
- Legal Constraints: The MTA has stated that changes to the tolling structure would require legislative action, as the current law defines the tolling boundaries.
Detailed Breakdown
Tolling Mechanism
The congestion pricing toll applies to drivers entering Manhattan south of 60th Street. For those using the Queensboro Bridge, a quirk exists: drivers on the lower roadway briefly cross 60th Street, incurring the toll even if they do not plan to enter the congestion zone. Similarly, drivers exiting Manhattan via the Upper East Side must enter the zone at 59th Street to access the bridge, also resulting in a $9 charge during peak hours.
Public Frustration
Drivers have reacted strongly to this tolling arrangement. Jonathan Kahn, a frequent user of the bridge, called it a “sneaky device,” voicing his frustration that he is charged for merely crossing a street while heading to medical appointments north of the toll zone. The toll has led many to label the area around the bridge as “the most expensive block in Manhattan.”
Impact on Traffic
Since the tolling system was activated, the MTA has reported a significant reduction in traffic, with 43,000 fewer vehicles traveling on Manhattan roads each weekday. This statistic suggests that the congestion pricing may be effective in reducing traffic congestion, albeit at the cost of driver dissatisfaction.
Political Response
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams has noted the public’s frustration and has called for changes to the tolling system. He emphasized the need for better signage in Queens to inform drivers about potential tolls and suggested that the MTA could adjust the locations of toll cameras to mitigate these issues. Williams supports the overall goal of congestion pricing but believes that its implementation could be improved to address drivers’ concerns.
Legal Constraints
Despite calls for change, MTA officials have stated that their hands are tied due to the 2019 state law establishing the congestion pricing boundaries. This law specifies the tolling geography, and any amendments would require action from state lawmakers. MTA spokesperson Aaron Donovan reiterated that the toll points are aligned with the law’s established boundaries.
Notable Quotes & Data
- “It’s a sleight of hand by a public agency,” said Jonathan Kahn, expressing his discontent with the tolling system.
- Public Advocate Jumaane Williams remarked, “People are calling it the most expensive block in Manhattan,” highlighting the concerns of local drivers.
Context & Implications
The introduction of congestion pricing in New York City aims to alleviate traffic congestion and promote public transportation use. However, the backlash from drivers on the Queensboro Bridge underscores the complexities involved in implementing such a system. As the MTA navigates legal constraints and public dissatisfaction, the effectiveness and fairness of congestion pricing will likely remain a contentious topic in New York City’s transportation policy discussions. The situation also raises questions about the balance between generating revenue for public transit improvements and ensuring equitable treatment for all road users.