New Yorkers OK Congestion Pricing, With One Exception

"While voters statewide opposed the fees 52 percent to 31 percent, they accepted the plan 52 percent to 36 percent if the revenue held fares and tolls steady, according to the poll."

"The proposal, part of New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg's plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2030, is being debated among state lawmakers, who with Governor Eliot Spitzer must give approval for it to become law. Bloomberg says the plan would cut pollution, reduce street congestion, and raise transit revenue."

"'This poll clearly demonstrates that New Yorkers put top priority on an affordable and reliable mass transit system.' said Kathryn Wylde, president of the Partnership for New York City, a business executives group. 'When assured that they stand to benefit from the revenues generated by congestion pricing, the overwhelming number of people support a toll on people who choose to drive into Manhattan during the busiest times of day.'"