How Governor Hochul Decided to Kill Congestion Pricing in New York

In recent months, Gov. Kathy Hochul has expressed concerns about implementing congestion pricing. She privately discussed these concerns with various individuals, including business leaders, political advisers, and regular New Yorkers. However, she did not share these concerns with the public, who were expecting the tolling structure to be implemented in Manhattan this month. The decision to abandon the decades-long plan has shocked lawmakers, real estate leaders, transit advocates, and other stakeholders. Hochul cited a reluctance to discourage driving to New York City during its fragile economic recovery, while critics believe it is a ploy to support suburban Democrats in districts where congestion pricing is unpopular. This announcement by Hochul has left those who regarded her as an ally feeling betrayed. Jon Orcutt, a congestion pricing proponent, described it as a profound sense of betrayal.