New Jersey mayor floats ‘reverse congestion pricing’ toll in response to NYC’s controversial toll
New Jersey Mayor Steven Fulop is considering implementing a reverse congestion pricing toll in response to New York City’s recent congestion pricing toll implementation. Fulop, who is also running for governor of New Jersey, believes that this could be a way to push back against the toll imposed by New York City. He stated, “New Jersey has the same opportunity to push the buttons that New York is pushing against us. We could do that to them, but the goal is to get to a table to have a reasonable solution.”
Fulop envisions the reverse congestion pricing toll as a means to generate revenue for New Jersey’s mass transit system, which has been plagued by delays and cancellations. He emphasized the importance of investing in improving New Jersey Transit to provide a more reliable transportation option for residents. Fulop criticized the governor’s handling of the situation, stating that the opportunity to receive funding from New York City’s toll was missed due to litigation.
The specifics of Fulop’s proposal are still being worked out, but he mentioned the possibility of setting up gantries or toll sites outside tunnels and bridges in New Jersey. Similar to congestion pricing, there may be exemptions or crossing credits considered in the implementation of the reverse toll. It remains unclear whether New Jersey residents would be required to pay the toll to reenter their home state, similar to some New Yorkers facing charges for congestion pricing.
Overall, Fulop’s proposed reverse congestion pricing toll aims to address the impact of New York City’s congestion pricing toll on New Jersey and provide much-needed funding for the state’s transit system. As discussions continue, it will be interesting to see how this proposal develops and its potential effects on commuters in the region.
