Myths vs. Facts

The Truth About NYC Congestion Pricing

Setting the Record Straight

Fact: Congestion pricing is a tool for economic recovery, reducing traffic, improving air quality, and funding transit upgrades.

Only 1.53% of commuters across NY and NJ districts are expected to pay the fee. With over 98% of commuters unaffected, the impact on overall commuter expenses is minimal. Improved traffic flow can enhance economic productivity by reducing time lost in traffic.

Fact: The vast majority of drivers won’t be financially impacted. The average percentage of commuters expected to pay the fee varies by district type:

  • NJ State Legislative: 0.51%
  • NY State Senate: 1.78%
  • NY State Assembly: 1.57%
  • NJ Congressional: 0.92%
  • NY Congressional: 1.61%

Fact: NJ commuters are actually less affected compared to the overall average:

  • NJ State Legislative districts: 0.51% of commuters affected
  • NJ Congressional districts: 0.92% of commuters affected
  • Overall average across all districts: 1.53% of commuters affected

Fact: By law, congestion pricing revenue must be used solely for upgrading transit. This benefits a wide range of people, as income levels of transit users and drivers vary across districts:

District TypeAvg. Driver IncomeAvg. Transit User Income
NJ State Legislative$57,251$55,985
NY State Senate$58,960$60,911
NY State Assembly$56,594$55,776
NJ Congressional$57,904$54,642
NY Congressional$58,366$61,996

In some areas, transit users have higher average incomes, while in others, drivers do. Improvements will benefit commuters across income levels.

Fact: High public transit usage in some districts demonstrates the potential for reduced traffic congestion:

  • NY State Assembly District 52: 42% CBD transit usage
  • NY State Assembly District 67: 40% CBD transit usage
  • NY State Assembly District 69: 39% CBD transit usage

This suggests congestion pricing can effectively shift commuters to public transit. The MTA and city planners will monitor traffic patterns and make adjustments as needed to prevent neighborhood congestion.

Fact: With only 1.53% of commuters expected to pay the fee, the economic impact on local businesses is likely limited. Improvements in traffic flow and public transit can enhance access to businesses.

High public transit usage in many districts indicates a strong customer base that relies on efficient transit systems, which can support local businesses.

Act Now: Tell the Governor to Unpause Congestion Pricing!