Monday marked what could be the final public hearing sessions for the controversial congestion pricing plan for Manhattan, but the fight against the proposal remains far from over.
The plan calls for a $15 daytime toll for drivers to enter Manhattan below 60th Street, with a discounted toll during overnight hours. Truck drivers and some buses would face tolls ranging between $24 and $36, depending on their size, with various fees for motorcycles, taxis, and rideshares. Low-income drivers would receive a 50% discount, while transit vehicles like city buses and first responders such as police and fire vehicles would be exempt. Transit officials say the goal of congestion pricing is to reduce gridlock by discouraging driving and using toll revenue to fund mass transit upgrades.
"Some local lawmakers say there should also be exemptions or at least discounts for Hudson Valley commuters since many don't have access to Metro North trains unless they come into Westchester County," emphasizes Rockland County Executive Ed Day.
Day says at some point, Rockland County will file a lawsuit against the MTA, joining New Jersey state officials in legal action.
"They don't want to face a guy like me because it would be a very uncomfortable moment in their lives. They know damn well they're not treating us right. They know damn well, I will say it, and they know I will not let go of it," says Day.