Congestion Pricing U-turn Draws Praise — and Anger

Mixed reactions abound across the region, following New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to indefinitely pause congestion pricing. Supporters in New Jersey, including Governor Murphy, were pleased with the delay, claiming it relieves potential economic burdens on families and commuters. In contrast, environmental and transit advocates have criticized the move as a lost opportunity to reduce emissions and improve circulation through Midtown and Lower Manhattan. Critics argue that the decision was political rather than economic, with air pollution continuing to worsen since 2020. The pause also raises questions about how the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will fund proposed and existing transit projects, without the estimated billion dollars in annual revenue from congestion pricing.