Congestion pricing will possible stay within the coronary heart of Manhattan till the autumn underneath an settlement struck between the Trump administration and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority — earlier than a federal choose then finally decides the controversial toll’s destiny, in line with courtroom paperwork.
The revelation got here Monday after the deal was conveyed to Decide Lewis Liman Friday — the identical day US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy rode the beleaguered metropolis subway system with Mayor Eric Adams and ripped the MTA for its excessive spending.
The schedule specified by a letter by the MTA to the choose would forestall a choice on the case till not less than the center of summer time, however would give method for each side to submit additional motions that may possible drag the authorized battle into October, the docs exhibits.
The Division of Transportation additionally instructed the MTA it didn’t plan on searching for an injunction that may cease this system – not less than quickly – earlier than the choose makes a ruling, the authorized papers mentioned.
The tolling program started in early January, however now hangs within the steadiness after President Trump mentioned he wished to yank federal approval in February, establishing a courtroom combat between the transit authority and federal authorities.
Gov. Kathy Hochul has mentioned she intends to maintain this system energetic because the courtroom combat performs out.
Federal officers have known as on New York state to kill congestion pricing, although final month Duffy prolonged a deadline for this system to cease by April 20.
The transportation chief hasn’t been shy about blasting the state and MTA over the previous few months.
When Duffy visited the Huge Apple final week, he slammed the MTA for wasteful spending and took a shot on the $9 tolls for drivers that enter beneath sixtieth Avenue.
Emails to the governor’s workplace and MTA weren’t instantly returned Monday evening.
The DOT didn’t instantly reply to a request for remark.
Whereas the proposed timeline within the authorized case permits New York to maintain charging drivers, the Trump administration might strain the state to scrap this system by withholding federal funds.
