via newsday
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has received final federal approval for its congestion pricing plan that would charge tolls to motorists driving below 60th Street in Manhattan.
The Federal Highway Administration confirmed on Monday that, after an analysis of the plan and a review of public comments, it had determined the plan would cause no adverse environmental impact for the region.
The plan, the first of its kind in the country, is intended to reduce congestion in Manhattan would charge cars driving below 60th Street during peak hours. Those without an E-ZPass could face tolls of up to $34.50.
The MTA, which declined to comment Monday, is seeking to raise $1 billion a year in new revenue. The money will be dedicated to the agency’s capital program, which funds infrastructure improvements throughout the transit agency, including the Long Island Rail Road, which stands to get 10% of the new toll money.
Passenger vehicles pay $24; commercial vans $65 and large trucks $82. The MTA said it will offer discounts to low-income New Yorkers earning $50,000 or less per year, or receiving government subsidies. They would pay 25% less than the regular toll rate for the first 10 trips made every month. The discount program would expire in five years. It could take effect as early as April 2024.
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