A federal Finding of No Significant Impact moves the program closer to implementation, which could happen as early as May 2024.
“The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has issued a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for New York City’s Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP), also known as congestion pricing, following a 30-day public review of the Final Environmental Assessment,” according to an article by Mischa Wanek-Libman in Mass Transit Magazine.
The FONSI signals another step forward for the program. Now, the Traffic Mobility Review Board (TMRB) will have to develop a toll structure and set up the necessary equipment.
“The program will charge vehicles a toll for traveling in Manhattan south of and inclusive of 60th Street, excluding through-traffic on the Franklin D. Roosevelt Drive, West Side Highway, Battery Park Underpass and roadway portions of the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel connecting to West Street.” It would be the first of its kind in a U.S. city. New Jersey officials have opposed the program, arguing it disproportionately impacts New Jersey residents who commute into New York City. But as a Streetsblog NYC article pointed out in 2021, the New Jersey commuters who would be subject to the congestion tax are overwhelmingly wealthier than those who use transit.
More on New York City’s congestion pricing program:
FULL STORY: FHWA issues FONSI for NYC congestion pricing
Agreement Keeps NYC Congestion Pricing Alive Through Summer
The tolling program will continue while a court considers the city’s lawsuit against the Trump administration.
Tri-State Economies to Lose Billions From Congestion Pricing Pause
New York City’s congestion pricing program, suspended by Governor Hochul earlier this year, would have pumped $12 billion into local projects and jobs.
NYC Traffic Moving At Under 7 MPH, Congestion Pricing Remains Suspended
Congestion is making driving in the city slower than ever.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.
LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
Paris Voters Approve More Car-Free Streets
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo says the city will develop a plan to close 500 streets to car traffic and add new bike and pedestrian infrastructure after a referendum on the proposal passed with 66 percent of the vote.
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