This week, we asked readers their thoughts on New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s last minute decision to temporarily halt the implementation of congestion pricing tolls for commuters driving into Manhattan which was due to go into effect on June 30, and help fund the MTA.

 

“I kind of have a problem with it [the toll] a little bit because we’re already paying $2.90 and we’re still dealing with the congestion, the rats, the homeless people. We’re already paying too much, and they want people to pay $15 extra to go through the same things. [It’s] a little outrageous. There is violence, there’s shootings on the trains, robberies. The MTA is getting money all the time; they have enough.”

Arianna Dixon,

Harlem resident visiting Olinville

“I don’t drive. I take the subway and the buses. I don’t agree with the toll because people out here are suffering and starving and they’re making it impossible. I think the MTA is keeping the money for themselves, and we’re out here starving and suffering and paying these bills since the prices went up after COVID-19. They spent all this money on the cameras; it’s useless.”

Valada Hill,

Norwood

“I think we’re paying enough already; a $15 toll is way crazy! It’s temporary; it might happen in the future, but for me, I’m happy with what the governor did. The subway doesn’t look like it needs money. I really don’t know where the money is going. They need to explain to people where the money is going. Why do they need more?”

Vocar Diallo,

Castle Hill resident visiting Norwood

“My feeling on congestion pricing is I, basically, don’t agree with it at all. I take the train almost every day. The MTA needs funding; maybe they could just charge $10? That should be sufficient.”

David Santos,

Manhattan resident visiting Bedford Park

“I understand the difficulties of living and navigating the congestion, but why address this now? It’s always been this way. When did the MTA gain so much authority here? Why hasn’t anyone investigated them? They always have a surplus. How does the president of the MTA make more than the U.S. president? This will destroy businesses and jobs. I hope some government body steps in and audits them. I’m a commuter for decades; the service never gets better. They’re full of it.”

Kay Cardona,

Indian Village

 

Editor’s Note: As reported, the MTA announced on Friday, June 8, on the back of the governor’s decision to delay congestion pricing that the lack of revenue arising from the delay may impact some of the agency’s capital plan projects, including ADA upgrades like the elevator installation at Mosholu Parkway subway station.