Delivery drivers, elected officials rally against potential congestion prices

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority's proposal could make congestion prices hit $23 below 60th Street. It would also mark the second congestion tax the drivers, workers would face over the last four years, which has equaled to over $1 billion in pricing.

Marisa Marcellino and Rob Taub

Jul 19, 2023, 10:02 PM

Updated 526 days ago

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Delivery workers, drivers and elected officials on Wednesday rallied outside MTA headquarters over the congestion pricing proposal.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority's proposal could make congestion prices hit $23 below 60th Street. It would also mark the second congestion tax the drivers, workers would face over the last four years, which has equaled to over $1 billion in pricing.
The organizers say they are calling on Mayor Eric Adams to intervene, as the pricing will make it harder for essential workers to support their families. They add the increase would involve job losses.
“We’re not talking about just coming to hang out in the city,” said an attendee. “I’m talking about feeding my family, supporting myself. The reason I’m coming to the city is to work.”
The MTA said in a statement, “The number of taxi and For-Hire Vehicle trips has doubled in recent years while travel speeds in Manhattan dropped precipitously. Congestion pricing provides a solution and improves mass transit for the vast majority of people.”