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NY, NJ claim victory in congestion pricing fight
The rollout of NYC’s congestion pricing plan remains uncertain after a federal judge issued a partial ruling on New Jersey’s lawsuit. Both states are claiming victory over whether the toll system will begin Sunday, January 5.
NEW YORK - Congestion pricing is just days away, and that means the same bumper-to-bumper commute with a heftier price tag.
Even Citi Bike rides are rolling into the new year with steeper costs.
Here’s what you need to know about the rising costs of commuting to and from New York City in 2025.
SKIP TO: Pricing map | Tolls | MTA bus | Subway | Citi Bike
When does congestion pricing start?
New York State’s Congestion Relief Zone Toll will begin on Sunday, January 5, 2025.
By law, only established tolls will be collected during the first 60 days, with no additional fees, charges, or fines during this period.
Congestion pricing map
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Congestion pricing countdown in New York City
The start of congestion pricing in New York City is just under a week away. FOX 5 NY's Hayley Fixler has the story.
The Congestion Relief Zone includes Manhattan streets and avenues below 60th Street, excluding:
- FDR Drive
- West Side Highway
- Hugh L. Carey Tunnel connecting to West Street
Drivers exiting these exempt roadways into the Congestion Zone will still be tolled. Tolling equipment will be installed on Broadway between 60th and 61st Streets.
How much will congestion pricing cost?
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Bronx residents concerned over congestion pricing
As New York City prepares for congestion pricing to begin on Jan. 5, Bronx activists are voicing concerns about increased traffic and pollution rerouted through their borough. While the MTA promises $130 million for air filters and a new asthma clinic, many fear the measures won’t be enough to offset the environmental and health impacts.
Toll rates vary based on the type of vehicle and time of day:
- Passenger and small commercial vehicles: $9 during peak hours, $2.25 during off-peak hours
- Motorcycles: $4.50 during peak hours, $1.05 during off-peak hours
- Trucks and buses: $14.40 to $21.60 during peak hours, $3.60 to $5.40 during off-peak hours
Most vehicles will pay $9 to enter the zone during peak hours, on top of existing bridge and tunnel tolls. Larger trucks will see charges ranging from $14.40 to $21.60. Drivers without an E-ZPass will receive a bill mailed to their vehicle’s registered address.
Congestion pricing discounts, exemptions
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Congestion Pricing nears: Last day to apply for discounts
Congestion pricing is set to go into effect one week from today. There will be very few exemptions and ways to apply for discounts, but that deadline is today. FOX 5 NY's Michelle Ross has the details.
Emergency vehicles, specialized city vehicles, and buses on regular public routes or city school contracts are exempt.
Low-income residents of the Congestion Zone can apply for a 50% discount through the Low-Income Discount Plan (LIDP) after their first 10 trips in a calendar month.
Subway, MTA bus fare
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MTA fare hike: What riders need to know
NYC subway and bus fares are set to rise to $3 per ride by August 2024 following the MTA board's approval of a 4% fare hike. The increase comes as congestion pricing is slated to begin in January, charging drivers $9 daily below 60th Street in Manhattan. Here's what you need to know about the future of getting around in New York City.
Starting summer 2025, the MTA will raise fares for subways and buses as part of its 2025 budget plan.
Following the recent trend of 4% fare hikes, the base fare for subway and bus rides will increase from $2.90 to $3.
This fare hike follows a series of increases aimed at bolstering the transit system’s financial health.
Citi Bike prices
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Citi Bike price increases
FOX 5 NY's Sharon Crowley breaks down how much riders can expect to pay.
Citi Bike’s pricing changes take effect on January 6, 2025:
Non-members: The cost to unlock a bike will rise to $4.99, with e-bike usage charged at 38 cents per minute. Overage charges will also increase to 38 cents per minute for all bikes.
Members: While annual membership rates remain unchanged, e-bike usage will cost 25 cents per minute, with the same rate applied for overage charges. Reduced fare riders will pay 13 cents per minute for e-bikes and 25 cents for overages.
Day passes: The price will rise from $19 to $25 starting February 3, marking the third price hike in just over a year.
Will congestion pricing last?
Governor Kathy Hochul has committed to keeping congestion pricing tolls stable for at least three years, but the cumulative effect of rising costs across transportation modes will be felt immediately.
With subway fares inching closer to $3, higher Citi Bike fees, and substantial tolls for drivers, 2025 is shaping up to be a costly year for commuters.