In a historic move, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has approved a new $15 toll for passenger cars entering the heart of Manhattan, making New York City the first city in the country to implement congestion pricing. The plan, approved by a vote of 11-1, aims to address traffic congestion and raise funds for improving mass transit.

Under the approved plan, passenger vehicles driving south of 60th Street will be charged from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. However, exemptions have been made for traffic on the West Side Highway and the FDR Drive. The tolling period will not apply to these routes.

While the majority of the board voted in favor of the plan, one member, David Mack, voted against it, expressing concerns over the impact on businesses and the vibrancy of the city, particularly due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Just moments before the vote, protesters demanded full exemptions for yellow taxi cabs. However, the plan does provide various exemptions, including for yellow school buses, most private commuter buses, and city-owned vehicles. Additionally, drivers making less than $50,000 per year can apply for a discount, and drivers entering from specified tunnels can receive a credit since they already pay tolls.

The primary goal of implementing congestion pricing is to reduce traffic congestion and generate funds for improving mass transit. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber highlighted that approximately 90% of New Yorkers already commute to the Central Business District by transit.

The generated revenue from congestion pricing will be utilized to enhance the city's mass transit system. Some of the planned improvements include making more stations accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and re-signaling train lines to enhance reliability. The funds will also be used for expansion projects, such as Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway and Metro-North Penn Station Access.

However, there are potential roadblocks to the implementation of the plan. Lawsuits in both federal courts in New York and New Jersey may cause delays. Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey expressed his concerns over what he perceives as an unfair tolling scheme that discriminates against New Jersey drivers, particularly lower and middle-income drivers.

Despite the controversies surrounding the congestion pricing plan, the MTA's approval marks a significant step towards tackling traffic congestion and improving mass transit in New York City. The plan is set to take effect in mid-June, pending the resolution of ongoing legal challenges.

As the first city in the country to approve congestion pricing, New York City has taken a bold step towards addressing one of its most pressing transportation challenges. The success of this initiative could potentially pave the way for other cities to consider similar solutions in the future.