Days after the Traffic Mobility Review Board released its recommendations for congestion pricing, New York City Transit President Richard Davey signaled his support for the plan during an appearance on “Mornings On 1,” saying he thinks it has "struck the right balance."
“There was talk of the toll being up to $23,” Davey said. “Obviously, it got down to $15, which is, I think, good news. But look, at the same time, we want to reduce congestion in the city, we want ambulances and firetrucks to get around, and me, as New York City Transit president, I want my buses to get around.”
"And we have some of the slowest buses, maybe on the planet? Not to be bragged about. And so congestion pricing should help our bus customers get around the city as well," he added.
Davey offered his thoughts ahead of a rally in support of congestion pricing that is expected to be attended by transit leaders and Gov. Kathy Hochul late Tuesday morning.
The recommendations, however, have not been without controversy. On Monday, some lawmakers, coming into Manhattan from suburban areas, sounded off, saying the plan is nothing more than a money grab.
“Janno Lieber and the MTA will tell you they need a billion dollars. Well, if you need a billion dollars from congestion pricing, obviously you want people to pay that, which means you want people to keep coming in with their vehicles,” Rep. Mike Lawler, a Republican representing parts of the Hudson Valley, said at a news conference.
The MTA Board is set to hold a vote on the plan Wednesday. If approved, there is a 60-day review and public comment period.
“Obviously, the board will take into consideration the recommendations and then, regardless of the vote, there’s still more process to be had,” Davey said.