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Governor Kathy Hochul's plan, which reduces daily congestion fees to $9 down from $15, aims to reduce traffic and fund transit improvements, but Murphy argues it unfairly targets New Jersey residents.
The plan would require motorists to face $9 tolls when entering certain parts of Manhattan known as the Congestion Relief Zone. The zone is comprised of Lower Manhattan south of 60th Street and Midtown.
In a statement, Murphy called the plan “a way to take money from the pockets of New Jersey residents to bail out the MTA from a mountain of debt.”
He emphasized that the timing couldn’t be worse, citing economic strain and inflation affecting Americans nationwide. Murphy also criticized the lack of meaningful consultation with New Jersey on the plan's design, calling the process one-sided.
While Hochul’s office touted the benefits of congestion pricing — such as reduced gridlock, cleaner air, and improved public transit, including new subway expansions and electric buses — Murphy remained resolute: “I urge Governor Hochul to reconsider the plan,” he stated, adding that his administration will continue to fight it in court.
Murphy’s stance highlights the growing tension between the two states as New York moves forward with congestion pricing, which is set to take effect in January.
Hochul paused the plan just before it was set to take effect last June, saying a $15 was too high.
The new plan, with a main goal of funding the MTA, is set to take effect in January, provided city and state officials sign an agreement with transportation officials in the Biden Administration, who have shown support for it, the New York Times reports.
President-elect Donald Trump is in opposition of Hochul's plan. He told the NY Post it is the "most regressive tax known to womankind."
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