New York City, November 4, 2025
President Donald Trump has renewed efforts to terminate New York City’s vehicle congestion pricing program, which charges vehicles $9 during peak hours to enter Manhattan. Launched to alleviate traffic and generate funds for public transit improvements, the program has faced criticism from Trump, who claims it harms the city’s economy. Governor Kathy Hochul defends the program, highlighting its positive impact on traffic reduction and transit funding. Ongoing legal challenges and funding freezes by the Trump administration add complexity to the congestion pricing debate.
New York City
President Donald Trump has renewed efforts to terminate New York City’s vehicle congestion pricing program, which charges most vehicles $9 during peak hours to enter Manhattan south of 60th Street. Launched in January, the program is expected to generate $500 million in 2025, funding key mass transit improvements. Trump criticized the fee on social media, blaming it for making Manhattan a “ghost town,” while New York Governor Kathy Hochul defended it as a successful initiative that reduces traffic and boosts tourism.
Previously, a federal judge issued an injunction preventing the Trump administration from cutting federal funds in an attempt to pressure the state to end the program. Yet, Trump has directed Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to revisit measures to block it. Meanwhile, Hochul reiterated the importance of the program, which supports $15 billion in transit debt financing.
In related actions, the Trump administration froze $18 billion in transit project funds, including support for the $17.2 billion Hudson River tunnel project. That move has also stirred political debate, particularly in the New Jersey gubernatorial race. A final court ruling on the lawsuit is expected by year’s end.
Background on Congestion Pricing
New York City’s congestion pricing program was implemented to alleviate traffic congestion and generate revenue for public transit improvements. The program charges most passenger vehicles $9 during peak periods to enter Manhattan south of 60th Street. The funds raised are allocated to support $15 billion in capital improvements for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), including extending the Second Avenue Subway to West Harlem, modernizing signal technology, and upgrading 23 subway stations for accessibility. The program aims to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and enhance the efficiency of the city’s public transportation system.
Legal Challenges and Political Responses
The Trump administration’s attempts to halt the program have faced legal challenges. In May 2025, a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order, allowing the program to continue until at least June 9, as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s lawsuit against the federal government proceeds. Governor Hochul has defended the program, emphasizing its benefits in reducing traffic and supporting transit infrastructure. The ongoing legal battles and political debates underscore the complexities surrounding the implementation and potential termination of the congestion pricing program.
Impact on New York City’s Transit System
The congestion pricing program has had a significant impact on New York City’s transit system. Within a month of its implementation, subway ridership increased by six percent, and bus ridership by nine percent. Traffic decreased by 11 percent, indicating a positive effect on reducing congestion. The revenue generated from the program is crucial for funding essential transit projects, including the purchase of over 250 electric buses and upgrades to subway signal systems. The program’s success in improving transit efficiency and reducing traffic congestion highlights its importance for the city’s transportation infrastructure.
Future Outlook
The future of New York City’s congestion pricing program remains uncertain due to ongoing legal challenges and political opposition. A final court ruling on the lawsuit is expected by year’s end, which will determine the program’s fate. In the meantime, the program continues to operate, contributing to reduced traffic congestion and increased transit ridership. The outcome of the legal proceedings will have significant implications for the city’s transportation policies and infrastructure development.
FAQ
What is New York City’s congestion pricing program?
The program charges most passenger vehicles $9 during peak periods to enter Manhattan south of 60th Street, generating revenue for public transit improvements.
Why is President Trump attempting to terminate the program?
President Trump criticizes the fee, claiming it makes Manhattan a “ghost town,” and has directed Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to revisit measures to block it.
What has been the response from New York officials?
Governor Kathy Hochul defends the program, emphasizing its success in reducing traffic and supporting transit infrastructure, and has indicated a willingness to continue legal battles to maintain it.
What are the legal challenges facing the program?
A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order in May 2025, allowing the program to continue until at least June 9, as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s lawsuit against the federal government proceeds.
What impact has the program had on New York City’s transit system?
Within a month of implementation, subway ridership increased by six percent, bus ridership by nine percent, and traffic decreased by 11 percent, indicating positive effects on reducing congestion and improving transit efficiency.
Key Features of the Congestion Pricing Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Implementation Date | January 5, 2025 |
| Toll Amount | $9 during peak periods for most passenger vehicles entering Manhattan south of 60th Street |
| Projected Revenue | $500 million in 2025 |
| Primary Purpose | Reduce traffic congestion and fund public transit improvements |
| Key Projects Funded | Extension of the Second Avenue Subway to West Harlem, modernization of subway signal technology, and upgrades to 23 subway stations for accessibility |
| Impact on Transit | Within a month, subway ridership increased by 6%, bus ridership by 9%, and traffic decreased by 11% |
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