Murphy Opposes New York Congestion Pricing Plan, According to Insider NJ

Statement from Governor Murphy Opposing New York’s Congestion Pricing Plan

“I am firmly opposed to any attempt to force through a congestion pricing proposal in the final months of the Biden Administration. All of us need to listen to the message that voters across America sent last Tuesday, which is that the vast majority of Americans are experiencing severe economic strains and still feeling the effects of inflation. There could not be a worse time to impose a new $9 toll on individuals who are traveling into downtown Manhattan for work, school, or leisure.

“New Jersey has never been meaningfully consulted on the design of this plan, either in its initial iteration or the version that was announced today. Perhaps that is because this effort has always simply been a way to take money from the pockets of New Jersey residents to bail out the MTA from a mountain of debt.

“I have consistently expressed openness to a form of congestion pricing that meaningfully protects the environment and does not put unfair burdens upon hardworking New Jersey commuters. Today’s plan woefully fails that test.

“I urge Governor Hochul to reconsider the plan, and I urge all elected officials in the region — including those set to take office in January — to speak out against this proposal. Meanwhile, my administration will continue the fight to block this plan in court.”

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New York City’s congestion pricing plan has been met with opposition from New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, according to a report from Insider NJ. The plan, which aims to reduce traffic congestion in Manhattan by charging drivers a fee to enter certain parts of the city during peak hours, has been a controversial topic among lawmakers and residents alike.

Governor Murphy’s opposition to the plan stems from concerns about its potential impact on New Jersey commuters who rely on driving into the city for work. The governor has argued that the plan could disproportionately affect lower-income individuals who may not have access to public transportation alternatives.

In addition to concerns about the plan’s impact on commuters, Governor Murphy has also expressed skepticism about how the revenue generated from congestion pricing would be allocated. He has called for more transparency and accountability in how the funds are spent, suggesting that they should be used to improve public transportation infrastructure and reduce emissions rather than simply being used as a revenue-generating tool.

Despite Governor Murphy’s opposition, supporters of the congestion pricing plan argue that it is necessary to address the city’s growing traffic congestion problem. They point to successful implementation of similar plans in cities like London and Singapore, where congestion pricing has helped reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality.

Ultimately, the fate of New York City’s congestion pricing plan remains uncertain as lawmakers continue to debate its merits and drawbacks. Governor Murphy’s opposition adds another layer of complexity to the issue, highlighting the challenges of implementing effective transportation policies in densely populated urban areas.

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