A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration's efforts to halt New York City's congestion fee, ruling that the U.S. Department of Transportation lacked the authority to unilaterally rescind approval of the $9 toll.
Key Takeaways
A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration's efforts to halt New York's congestion fee, ruling that the Department of Transportation lacked authority to unilaterally rescind approval. The toll, which took effect on January 5, 2025, aims to reduce traffic and fund transit improvements.
- Federal judge blocks Trump administration's attempt to halt NYC congestion toll
- Judge rules DOT lacks authority to unilaterally revoke approval
- Congestion fee took effect on January 5, 2025, aiming to reduce traffic and fund transit
- Toll has generated over $550 million in revenue and reduced vehicle traffic by 27 million
- Trump administration plans to review legal options, including an appeal
The toll, which took effect on January 5, 2025, is meant to reduce traffic and pump revenue into the region’s aging transit system. Judge Lewis Liman sided with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), stating that the department's reversal was “arbitrary and capricious” because it had not adequately explained its reasoning.
In his 149-page ruling, Liman noted that New York’s legislature passed the toll, which was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul and received the necessary federal approvals before launching. The judge left the door open for future attempts by Trump and other opponents to kill the program.
Governor Hochul said the decision vindicates a “once-in-a-lifetime success story” that’s “yielded huge benefits” in its first year of operation, including reducing gridlock and unlocking critical funding for mass transit. The toll is imposed on most vehicles driving into Manhattan south of Central Park and varies depending on vehicle type and time of day.
According to a recent MTA report, the toll has led to 27 million fewer vehicles entering the heart of Manhattan, resulting in 22% less air pollution and 23% faster commute times for those opting to drive and pay the fee. The toll has also generated more than $550 million in revenue for the region’s transit system, exceeding projections.
The Trump administration plans to review its legal options, including an appeal. Spokespersons for the U.S. transportation department didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.
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