One Month In: Update on NYC’s Congestion Pricing
Written by: Rémy Rossi | February 11, 2025 | Time to read 5 min
NYC’s congestion pricing is back in the news with recent polling data and President Trump’s new plan to remove the toll.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
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New polls reveal less traffic and growing support
A recent survey released last week of 1,203 registered voters in New York State by the firm Morning Consult offered the first glimpse at public opinion and perceived effects. Below are the summarized findings, sourced from the Partnership for New York City.
Less traffic
- 47% of NY voters say congestion pricing led to less traffic in NYC, compared to 24% who disagree
- Around 70% of Manhattan voters, 60% of NYC voters, and over 50% of metro area residents agree traffic congestion has decreased
- Three-fourths of regular commuters into Manhattan say traffic decreased
Faster commutes
- Most people agree that congestion pricing made commutes faster— whether into and out of Manhattan or solely within Manhattan
- Three-fourths of voters who regularly drive into Manhattan report they experienced faster commutes
Overall support climbs slightly
- Support across statewide voters remains relatively unchanged since the December Siena poll
- NYC voter support of congestion pricing raises slightly, from 32% in December to 37% by the end of January
- The highest levels of support (66% support, 32% oppose) are among adults who drive into Manhattan a few times a week or more, and support remains a majority opinion for less frequent commuters and Manhattan residents
These are the key takeaways from the latest Morning Consult poll but there’s still a lot of data to gather, analyze, and publish. Revenue numbers coming from congestion pricing have not been shared yet, but more details about the amount of money raised by the MTA are expected to be released by late February. More concrete data on the traffic and revenue results will offer a clearer picture of the success of congestion pricing.
President Trump vows to end congestion pricing
Trump commented on his opposition to the toll, saying, “I think it’s really horrible, but I want to discuss it with her [Gov. Hochul] at this point. If I decide to do it, I will be able to kill it off in Washington through the Department of Transportation.” He has hinted at a possible deal to end the traffic policy and acknowledged other issues like city safety, subway cleanliness, and removing bike lanes.
Most voters say Trump should keep congestion pricing
The congestion pricing policy enjoys lower support statewide but it is more popular in and around New York City. There are also ongoing discussions about the future of congestion pricing exemptions for certain residents. Currently, some drivers can apply for Low-Income Discount or Low-Income Tax Credit for Residents to obtain a 50% discount. This discount starts after the first 10 trips per month and applies to all peak-hours trips for the remainder of that month.
In general, congestion pricing and less traffic inside New York City is welcomed news for bike commuters. E-Bike commuters and delivery workers still have to abide by the electric bike laws in New York State and there are even stricter e-Bike regulations in the City.
Upway is your go-to destination for high-quality new and used electric bikes, with a huge selection of road, cargo, eMTB, and more available at big discounts! Our UpCenter headquarters is located right next door in Brooklyn so we’ve been keeping a close eye on NYC traffic and the effects of congestion pricing.
Key Takeways
- Less Traffic & Faster Commutes: 47% of NY voters say congestion pricing reduced traffic; most commuters report quicker travel times.
- Trump’s Opposition: Trump wants to end the toll, but 59% of voters, including most NYC residents, want it to stay.
- Growing Support, Awaiting Revenue Data: NYC support rose to 37%, but MTA revenue details are expected later this month.
