**NYC’s Congestion Pricing Gets Green Light from Federal Authorities**

New York City's congestion pricing initiative has received the final necessary approval from federal authorities, setting the stage for most drivers to soon pay a $9 fee when entering the busiest areas of Manhattan. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (M.T.A.), which operates the city's public transit system and is tasked with implementing the new pricing strategy, confirmed that the Federal Highway Administration has given the green light to proceed.

The new system, set to kick off just after midnight on January 5, is designed to alleviate traffic congestion by imposing a toll on motorists entering Manhattan below 60th Street during peak times. Initially, the plan had included a higher toll of $15, but Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced that the fee would be reduced to $9.

Despite the final bureaucratic approval, the congestion pricing program may still face obstacles. At least nine lawsuits have been filed by opponents challenging the plan. Furthermore, President-elect Donald J. Trump has indicated that halting the congestion pricing initiative could be among his first actions after taking office.

This significant development in New York City’s efforts to manage traffic and reduce pollution has been closely monitored and will continue to be updated as new information emerges.