MTA releases preliminary data on the first week of congestion pricing; Hudson Valley-specific data not released

Preliminary data from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority shows congestion pricing is having its intended effect on traffic into Manhattan and below 60th Street.

A report released yesterday by the MTA found:

Overall traffic was down 7.5% compared to the same time last year.
219,000 fewer vehicles entered the Central Business District.
Inbound river crossing times were 30-40% faster.

“The early data backs up what New Yorkers have been telling us all week – traffic is down, the streets feel safer, and buses are moving faster," MTA President Janno Lieber said.

The transit authority did not release train or Hudson Valley-specific data.

MTA president says Metro-North has seamlessly adjusted to congestion pricing

It noted that 90% of commuters who work in the Central Business District had already taken the train before the program went into effect.

"Although the Congestion Relief Zone program is likely incentivizing some drivers to switch to transit, the trend is difficult to detect because the MTA system is so large and already carries the vast major of those who travel to Manhattan," the MTA said in a press release.

The report found no meaningful uptick in transit ridership or crowding on trains.

News 12 is speaking with Metro-North President Catherine Rinaldi this morning at 7:30 a.m.