New York’s Congestion Pricing Is Returning, Here’s What NJ Drivers Need To Know

Imagine you want to go into a popular part of Jersey; let's say downtown Point Pleasant, Hoboken, or any of our cool small touristy destinations.

Now, let's say all of a sudden you're getting hit with a massive $9 toll just to turn down certain streets in the town or city you are visiting.

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That would be crazy, right?

Well, that's what's getting ready to happen in New York City, and lots of Jersey commuters are concerned seeing how they already pay pretty big tolls in order to get into the city via the bridges for work or a day trip.

Congestion Pricing Is Set To Return To New York In 2025

The idea of congestion pricing in New York is not a new one.

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It made headlines last summer when it was announced that commuters, visitors, and residents alike would have to pay a toll to drive through certain parts of the city, but the idea was quickly stopped.

Now it looks like congestion pricing will be making a return on January 5th, according to Bloomberg

Where Will Congestion Pricing Be Put In Place In New York City?

The toll will be applied to anyone who drives south of 60th Street in Manhattan, and pricing varies depending on what times you drive and what type of vehicle you drive.

How Much Is The Toll For Congestion Pricing In New York City?

Bloomberg reports that it varies from vehicle to vehicle, but the average driver will see a charge of $9 on their EZ Pass, and trucks will see a charge of $14.40.

That price is for if you drive downtown during peak hours between 5 AM and 9 PM during the week.

If you drive through the congestion area overnight, you'll pay less; between 9 PM and 5 AM cars will be charged $2.25 and trucks will pay $3.60

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Eventually, New York's Congestion Pricing Will Increase From $9

It sounds crazy, but the plan is for the $9 toll to work its way up to $15 by 2031 eventually.

I'm not a fan of the idea of congestion pricing, I don't think you should have to pay even more in order to visit an already expensive city.

However, the New York Transit Authority mentioned that these tolls were meant to improve the roads and public transportation in New York City.

The program is also supposed to encourage more people to use public transportation to get around the city.