NYC Congestion Pricing: MTA Fights Trump Administration in Court

Preliminary Injunction Hearing

• ⚖️ A preliminary injunction hearing is scheduled for today at 500 Pearl Street in lower Manhattan concerning the future of NYC congestion pricing.
• 📌 The MTA has filed for this injunction to prevent the US DOT from terminating the controversial tolling program.
• ⏰ The hearing begins at 10:00 a.m., with each side allocated 45 minutes to present their arguments.

US DOT's Stance and Threats

• ⚠️ Transportation Secretary Shawn Duffy has issued multiple deadlines to New York to stop the tolling program, threatening to withhold federal funding for future projects.
• 📉 The MTA reports that as of April, there were 12% fewer vehicles entering the central business district than expected without the toll.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Duffy views congestion pricing as a burden to low and medium-income families, drivers, and truck drivers.

MTA's Legal Argument

• 📜 The MTA sent a letter to Duffy last week asserting that congestion pricing is legal and that he lacks the authority to terminate it.
• 🚫 If the preliminary injunction is granted, the federal DOT would be prevented from penalizing the MTA for keeping the cameras on until a final court decision is reached.

Public Support and Advocacy

• 📣 A group of congestion pricing advocates, including City Controller Brad Lander, are expected to rally in support of the program outside the federal courthouse at 9:15 a.m.