Summary:

Congestion pricing begins Sunday in NYC with a $9 toll for most vehicles entering Manhattan south of 60th Street.
A federal judge denied New Jersey's attempt to halt the program, but an appeal is pending.
The toll structure varies by vehicle type and time of day, with discounts and exemptions available.
Recent subway crimes raise safety concerns amid efforts to encourage public transit use.
New initiatives are underway to improve subway safety, including increased cameras, National Guard patrols, and new legislation on mental health commitments.

NYC Congestion Pricing: $9 Toll Hits Manhattan

Starting Sunday, most drivers entering Manhattan south of 60th Street will pay a $9 toll as congestion pricing begins. A federal judge denied New Jersey's request for a restraining order, but an appeal is planned. The MTA says this is a historic moment for the city, addressing traffic congestion and funding transit improvements.

Congestion Pricing Breakdown:

The toll varies by vehicle type and time of day:

| Vehicle Type | Peak Period Toll | Overnight Toll | Crossing Credits | |---------------------------------|-------------------|-----------------|------------------| | Passenger Vehicles | $9 | $2.25 | Up to $3 | | Motorcycles | $4.50 | $1.05 | Up to $1.50 | | Small Trucks & Buses | $14.40 | $3.60 | Up to $7.20 | | Large Trucks & Tour Buses | $21.60 | $5.40 | Up to $12 | | Taxis & For-Hire Vehicles | Per-trip charge | Per-trip charge | N/A |

Discounts and exemptions are available for low-income drivers and individuals with disabilities.

More details are available on the MTA website.

Subway Safety Concerns:

The new toll aims to encourage public transit use, but recent high-profile subway crimes, including a woman being set on fire and a man pushed onto the tracks, raise safety concerns. Murders in the subway have doubled, though other crimes are down. New initiatives include increased transit cameras and National Guard patrols, as well as legislation to make it easier to commit patients with severe mental illness.

Public Reaction:

Some commuters welcome the plan, hoping it will improve public transportation and address safety issues. Others worry about the financial burden on drivers and increased traffic in surrounding areas. The MTA CEO says the reduced congestion will benefit both drivers and transit riders.