On November 14, 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the phased implementation of New York’s Congestion Pricing program, which had previously been on hold. The MTA Board has now approved the plan, with tolling in the Congestion Relief Zone set to begin at midnight on Sunday, January 5, 2025.
Later this week, a series of public webinars will be announced to provide residents with detailed information about the Congestion Pricing program, including how it works, toll rates, and payment options. Stay tuned for dates and registration details.
Where Tolling Applies
Vehicles entering Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone—covering local streets and avenues at or below 60th Street—will be subject to tolls. The toll amount will vary based on factors such as:
- Vehicle type
- Time of day
- Crossing credits (if applicable)
- Payment method
For instance, passenger vehicles using E-ZPass will be charged $9 during peak hours and $2.25 overnight. A full list of toll rates, discounts and exemptions is available on the MTA’s website.
How Can You Prepare?
- Make sure your E-ZPass is up to date. If your vehicle’s license plate doesn’t match what’s on your E-ZPass account, you’ll receive a Toll by Mail, which is both less convenient and more expensive.
- If you don’t have an E-ZPass, you can sign up here: www.e-zpassny.com
- Special plans exist for low-income drivers and people with disabilities. Find out if you’re eligible for a discount or an exemption: mta.info/discounts
Plan Ahead
As tolling begins, prepare for the changes by reviewing your travel plans and ensuring your E-ZPass account is ready. For more details on toll rates and payment options, visit the MTA website.
Stay informed by signing up to the Congestion Relief Zone Tolling newsletter.
More Links:
- Congestion Relief Zone website: congestionreliefzone.mta.info
- Discounts Homepage: new.mta.info/tolls/congestion-relief- zone/discounts-exemptions
- Toll Rates: congestionreliefzone.mta.info/tolling
- E-ZPass New York: e-zpassny.com
- Congestion Pricing FAQs: congestionreliefzone.mta.info/faqs
- Capital Improvements to Public Transit to Be Funded with Congestion Relief Tolls: new.mta.info/tolls/congestion-relief-zone/better-transit