New Jersey officials, including Congressman Josh Gottheimer and Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco, are celebrating the reported delay of New York City's congestion pricing plan. The plan, which would impose tolls on drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street, has been a point of contention for New Jersey residents who commute to the city.
"After a five year fight, New York appears to have done right by hardworking Jersey families and backed off their outrageous Congestion Tax," said Congressman Gottheimer in a statement released on Wednesday (June 5).
The congestion pricing plan, which was set to start this summer, has been criticized for its potential to increase traffic and pollution in North Jersey, as well as the financial burden it would place on commuters. The plan could cost Jersey commuters thousands of dollars more a year to drive into Manhattan.
"New Jersey families can't afford the toll," Gottheimer said. He has been a vocal critic of the plan since its inception, arguing for investment in mass transit across the tri-state area instead.
Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco also welcomed the decision, calling it a "major win" for residents who do business in Manhattan.
The delay in implementing the congestion pricing plan comes as a relief to these officials and the residents they represent. However, it remains to be seen how long the delay will last and what the final plan will look like.