The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has halted New York City's congestion tolling program, a decision celebrated by truckers across the nation.
The big picture: USDOT's move on February 19 overturns an initiative aimed at reducing traffic in Manhattan below 60th Street by imposing tolls. These charges were seen as burdensome on the trucking industry and small businesses.
Backstory: The congestion tolls were implemented on January 5, 2025, with the goal of raising revenue for the transit system. The USDOT decided this went against the main purpose of tolls — which is easing congestion, not generating transit funds.
- Federal law typically prevents tolls on highways built with federal funds, except under specific exceptions.
- New York's tolling program offered no free alternatives for many drivers, sparking backlash from various sectors.
Impacts: U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy highlighted the hit on small businesses and higher costs for truck freight as reasons for ending the tolls. "It’s backwards and unfair," he stated.
Response: The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) applauded the USDOT's decision. "Truckers often have very little control over their schedules, so this congestion pricing plan is particularly problematic," stated OOIDA President Todd Spencer. Truckers felt the tolls were unfairly targeting their industry, according to an USDOT press release.
What's next: The Federal Highway Administration plans to collaborate with project sponsors to smoothly phase out the toll system. This development is a positive change for truckers navigating the challenges of New York’s busy streets.