Summary:

NYC congestion pricing is set to begin on Sunday after a judge rejected New Jersey's last-ditch effort to stop it.
The plan will charge drivers entering Manhattan below 61st Street $2.25 to $9.
New Jersey officials expressed disappointment and plan to appeal the decision, citing potential negative impacts.
The MTA and New York Governor Hochul support the plan, touting its benefits for mass transit and traffic reduction.
Despite the ruling, further legal challenges are expected.

NYC Congestion Pricing Starts Sunday: Judge Denies NJ's Last-Minute Challenge

A New Jersey judge has denied the state's attempt to halt the launch of NYC's congestion pricing plan, paving the way for the controversial program to begin on Sunday. The plan will charge drivers entering Manhattan below 61st Street, with fees ranging from $2.25 to $9 depending on the time of day.

The Ruling

Judge Leo Gordon rejected New Jersey's request for a temporary restraining order, arguing that the state's claims regarding environmental impact were insufficient. New Jersey's attorney, Randy Mastro, expressed their disagreement and indicated that an appeal is imminent.

Reactions

MTA Chairman Janno Lieber expressed relief, stating that the debate was over. New Jersey officials voiced their disappointment, citing potential negative environmental, public safety, and economic consequences. Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco even predicted "Bridgegate-esque gridlock."

New York Governor Kathy Hochul's office confirmed the plan will proceed as scheduled, despite previous pauses. Supporters argue that the program will raise billions to fund mass transit improvements, ease congestion, and reduce pollution. Critics, like City Council Member Bob Holden, predict further legal challenges.

What's Next?

While the program is set to begin, the possibility of future legal challenges remains, with another court hearing expected in two weeks. Meanwhile, New Yorkers have mixed reactions, with some viewing the toll as a necessary improvement to the city's transit system and others expressing concern over its impact on outer boroughs and neighboring states.