An Analysis of New Jersey Legislative Districts (2021)
Click here for our comprehensive 2024 analysis of congestion pricing impacts across all New Jersey and New York legislative districts in the NYC metro area.
In April 2019, the New York State Legislature enacted congestion pricing to ease Manhattan traffic and generate $1.5 billion annually for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). These funds are crucial for the MTA’s $54.8 billion capital plan, which includes modernizing subway signals and extending Metro-North service to Penn Station.
Despite delays from the Trump Administration and the COVID-19 pandemic, the MTA is now conducting a federal environmental assessment, seeking input from New Jersey residents. Some NJ legislators have opposed the plan, citing potential negative impacts on cross-Hudson commuters.
To clarify this issue, TSTC analyzed congestion pricing effects on 21 legislative districts in central and northern New Jersey, using data from the 2011-2015 Census American Community Survey and Census Transportation Planning Products.
Key Findings
- Minimal Impact on Drivers: In all districts, only a small percentage (average 1.6%) of residents working in Manhattan’s central business district (CBD) commute by private vehicle.
- Public Transit Dominates: On average, 77.5% of Manhattan CBD workers in these districts use public transportation.
- Income Disparities: Public transit commuters generally have lower median incomes compared to those driving alone. The average median income for drivers is $107,996, while it is $88,407 for transit users.
Fact Sheets Include:
- Percentages of residents commuting by private vehicle to the Manhattan CBD.
- Commuting patterns for both CBD and non-CBD areas.
- Median income data by commuting mode.
Fact Sheet Finder
Methodology
We examined commuting patterns and income data for NJ commuters into Manhattan’s CBD, focusing on equity impacts. Data was aggregated from census tracts within legislative districts 17-22, 25-29, and 31-40, covering Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, and Union Counties.
Data Sources:
- Demographics: US Census 2011-2015 5-Year American Community Survey (ACS)
- Commuting Patterns: Census Transportation Planning Products (CTPP) based on 2012–2016 ACS data
Our analysis visualizes the impact of congestion pricing on commuters, ensuring an informed discussion on this significant policy.
Important Update: Governor Hochul’s Recent Decision
Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced a pause on the congestion pricing plan set to start on June 30, 2024. This unexpected decision has created significant budget challenges for the MTA, with potential delays in critical projects like the Second Avenue Subway and new train cars. The pause has been attributed to political concerns, particularly about voter reactions in competitive districts.
This move underscores the need for current and accurate analysis of congestion pricing impacts. Our 2024 analysis provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of how these changes affect all legislative districts in the NYC metro area, considering recent developments and economic factors.
Why Check the 2024 Analysis?
- Updated Data: Reflects the most current commuting patterns and economic impacts.
- Expanded Scope: Covers all New Jersey and New York legislative districts in the NYC metro area.
- Strategic Insights: Provides guidance on navigating the evolving landscape of congestion pricing policy.
For archival purposes, this page remains active, serving as a repository for the 2021 fact sheets. However, for the most accurate and comprehensive insights, please refer to our latest analysis.