New York’s congestion pricing plan aims to reduce traffic and generate $15 billion for mass transit upgrades|Erik Drost|CC BY 2.0

New York City’s congestion pricing program, launched on January 5, appears effective, according to preliminary data.

Tolls and goals
The program charges passenger vehicles $9 to enter Manhattan below 60th Street during peak hours, with trucks paying $14.40–$21.60 and ride-share services adding fees of $0.75–$1.50.

The scheme aims to reduce traffic and generate $15 billion for mass transit upgrades.

An analysis of the first week shows a 7.5% drop in vehicles entering Manhattan’s central district.

Travel times have improved significantly, with river crossings like the George Washington Bridge and Lincoln Tunnel now becoming 30–40% faster.

Crosstown traffic also moves roughly 30% faster, benefiting buses and cars.

Ongoing adjustments and enforcement
Mayor Eric Adams called the program a “major change” and emphasized ongoing adjustments based on data.

Authorities are cracking down on drivers evading fees by obscuring license plates. Revenue figures are pending, but officials focus on tangible benefits for New Yorkers.

Meanwhile, similar congestion pricing in cities like London and Stockholm saw traffic drop up to 20%. Experts caution it’s early, but New Yorkers are already cruising faster and breathing easier.