New Jersey intensifies its opposition to New York’s congestion pricing plan, updating its lawsuit and seeking support from unexpected allies.
At a Glance
- New Jersey updates lawsuit against NYC’s congestion pricing plan
- Governor Phil Murphy opposes the $9 fee, citing environmental and economic impacts
- Over 400,000 New Jersey commuters could face significant costs
- Murphy seeks assistance from President Donald Trump
- New York Governor Kathy Hochul claims to have offered a generous settlement
New Jersey’s Legal Challenge Intensifies
New Jersey has escalated its opposition to New York City’s controversial congestion pricing plan by updating its lawsuit against the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The state is challenging the FHWA’s approval of changes to the plan without proper environmental reviews, arguing that the process violated federal environmental laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act and the Clean Air Act.
Governor Phil Murphy, leading the charge against the plan, has voiced strong concerns about its impact on New Jersey residents. The congestion pricing scheme, which aims to reduce traffic in Manhattan’s Central Business District by imposing tolls on vehicles entering the area, could generate $15 billion for the MTA’s capital improvements. However, Murphy argues that this comes at a steep cost to New Jersey commuters.
Environmental and Economic Concerns
The lawsuit highlights potential negative impacts on urban Bergen County communities, particularly Fort Lee, which already faces pollution and health issues. Murphy’s administration contends that the plan could exacerbate existing environmental problems in North Jersey.
“The decision by the federal government and the MTA to fast-track a proposal that solely benefits New York’s transportation system at the expense of hardworking New Jerseyans must be reevaluated and rescinded,” Murphy said. “Not only is this scheme a financial strain on hardworking New Jerseyans, but it will also have adverse environmental consequences on many North Jersey communities, as the federal government has admitted.”
Economically, over 400,000 New Jersey commuters could face significant costs due to the tolls, with little perceived benefit. The plan imposes a $9 fee for vehicles traveling below Central Park in New York City, a charge that Murphy argues unfairly penalizes New Jersey residents who contribute to New York’s economy.
Political Maneuvering and Unexpected Alliances
In an unexpected turn of events, Governor Murphy has sought assistance from President Donald Trump, who had previously criticized the congestion pricing plan. This move underscores the intensity of New Jersey’s opposition and the willingness to explore all avenues to protect its residents’ interests.
“We’ve made multiple offers to settle this lawsuit. I wish I could describe them to you because you would say they’re generous. I’m not at liberty to do that,” New York Governor Kathy Hochul said.
Despite Hochul’s claim of offering a generous settlement, New Jersey remains committed to opposing the plan through litigation and negotiation. Murphy has demanded transparency and accountability, requesting monthly data on the plan’s financial and operational impacts to better advocate for New Jersey commuters and the broader region.
