A federal judge in Newark, New Jersey, has rejected the state's request to halt the implementation of New York City's controversial congestion pricing program.
The decision allows the show to begin as scheduled on Sunday, according to Fox 5.
New Jersey leaders who filed a lawsuit against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority say the agency's environmental studies are inadequate.
Judge Leo Gordon previously said regulators must clarify how much New Jersey communities will receive to mitigate potential pollution impacts from price gouging. However, he did not say that the tolls would start working.
FEDERAL JUDGE LAWS ON NYC CONTACT PRICES; DEFINITION OF DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GROUPS
A federal judge in Newark, New Jersey, has rejected the state's request to halt the implementation of New York City's controversial congestion pricing program. (Getty Images)
Gordon said in his decision on Friday that there is no reason to delay the payment of money.
Randy Mastro, New Jersey's state attorney, said he intends to file a motion to block the introduction of congestion pricing.
MTA Chairman Janno Lieber praised the decision, noting the potential benefits of congestion pricing.
NYPD ARRESTS FOR WRONG JUDGMENT OF POSTAL EMPLOYEE ON DUTY
The decision allows the program to start as planned on Sunday. (Getty Images)
“We've been studying this issue for five years, but it only takes five minutes if you're in downtown Manhattan to see that New York has a real traffic problem,” Lieber said at a press conference. “I see there has been a lot of controversy about this plan and a lot of people are concerned about the impact of congestion pricing. To them, I want to say that the point is to make the city better for everyone.”
Congestion pricing is expected to generate billions in revenue to modernize New York's transportation infrastructure, but has faced criticism from New Jersey officials and commuters who say it places an undue burden on people who drive outside of New York.
MTA Chairman Janno Lieber praised the decision, noting the potential benefits of congestion pricing. (Getty Images)
CLICK FOR THE NEWS PROGRAM
Some passengers may face daily fees of up to $22, which will include existing Port Authority crossing fees.
President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly said that he plans to block the program after taking office at the end of this month.
Source link
