Actually it was dropped. But now New York is reintroducing a hated congestion charge that almost all drivers must pay.
In 2025, New York will reintroduce a tax that affects traffic in the city's central areas.
From midnight on January 5, 2025, motorists entering the central business district (CBD) will have to pay a $9 toll for cars. For people on motorcycles, the amount is 4.5 dollars.
For smaller trucks and buses that are not used for commuting, the fee will be $14.40.
While larger trucks and tourist buses will be charged $21.60. The charge, which also includes discounts at night, is part of a plan to reduce congestion and improve air quality in the city, among other things.
New York's mayor has backed the plan, which will also raise money for public transport improvements.
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According to the city government, the initiative will over time raise 15 billion dollars, which will be used to improve and expand the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's services – i.e. public transport.
It is expected that car consumption will fall by 5 percent. And that the number of carriages in the CBD area will be reduced by 10 per cent when the tax comes into effect.
The initiative was originally planned to come into effect as early as 2023, but was postponed following criticism, which focused in particular on the concerns for motorists' finances.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul explained why the tax is now lower than previously proposed.
– A fee of 15 dollars was simply too high under the current economic conditions. That is why we have reduced the daily charge to 9 dollars for cars.
It will save daily commuters nearly $1,500 a year, and that amount makes a big difference to many families, she says.
While many motorists can look forward to discounts or exemptions, it's not just those driving into the CBD who will feel the change.
Taxi companies will be charged a fee of $0.75 per ride. ride to, from or within the CBD area.
While services like Uber and Lyft must pay $1.50 per ride. trip. Critics have pointed out that these costs could end up with the passengers.
The plan also contains exceptions for certain groups. People with low incomes and the disabled will be able to get discounts or exemptions.
According to the authorities, the changes will not only provide financial means for transport, but also contribute to less pollution and fewer cars on the city's roads.
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