Mercer Times

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has voiced his opposition to New York's proposed congestion pricing plan. In a statement, he criticized the timing and impact of the proposal, which includes a $9 toll for individuals traveling into downtown Manhattan. "I am firmly opposed to any attempt to force through a congestion pricing proposal in the final months of the Biden Administration," Murphy stated.

Murphy emphasized that Americans are currently facing economic challenges and inflation, making it an inappropriate time to introduce new financial burdens. He also expressed dissatisfaction with New Jersey's lack of involvement in the planning process, stating, "New Jersey has never been meaningfully consulted on the design of this plan."

The governor suggested that the proposal is primarily intended to address financial issues within the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at the expense of New Jersey residents. While expressing openness to environmentally friendly congestion pricing measures, Murphy asserted that the current plan does not meet these criteria.

He called on New York Governor Kathy Hochul and other regional officials to reconsider or oppose the proposal. "I urge Governor Hochul to reconsider the plan," he said, adding that his administration will continue legal efforts against it.