NJ Drivers Brace for Toll Increase and Congestion Pricing in Manhattan
New Jersey drivers are in for a hit as they prepare to face a double whammy when it comes to tolls in New York City. The Port Authority recently announced that new toll rates will kick in starting this Sunday, January 5. These toll hikes are set to impact drivers using the Lincoln and Holland tunnels, the George Washington, Bayonne, and Goethals bridges, and the Outerbridge crossing. Drivers utilizing EZ-Pass will see an increase from $15.38 to $16.06 during peak hours and from $13.38 to $14.06 during non-peak hours.
Implications of Congestion Pricing
Adding to the financial burden, drivers are also set to be affected by congestion pricing, which will also take effect on the same day. This measure targets drivers entering what’s known as the Central Business District (CBD) in Manhattan, spanning from 60th Street down to the southern tip of the Financial District.
Understanding the New Toll Rates
Here’s an overview of the new toll rates for drivers planning to enter New York by car after Jan. 5:
Peak Hours
– Weekdays: 6 a.m.-10 a.m., 4-8 p.m.
– Saturday & Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Off-Peak Hours
– All Other Times
– Overnight Hours for Trucks: Sundays-Thursdays, 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. the following morning
Green Discount Plans
– Enrollment Required
– Eligible Low Emission Class 1 Vehicles
– Eligible Low Emission Class 7 Vehicles
Impact of Congestion Pricing Toll
The congestion pricing toll applies to the most congested part of Manhattan, south of Central Park. The toll amount varies based on the time and whether the vehicle has an E-ZPass. Cars, SUVs, small vans, and pickup trucks with an E-ZPass will be charged $9 during peak hours and $2.25 during overnight hours. Drivers without an E-ZPass will pay $13.50 during peak hours and $3.30 overnight. Motorcyclists will pay half the amount of cars during peak hours, while buses and trucks will pay varying amounts based on their size.
Impact on Communities
Rep. Josh Gottheimer, a vocal critic of the toll plan, expressed concerns about increased traffic on the George Washington Bridge and its impact on Bergen County. The MTA, on the other hand, defended congestion pricing, emphasizing its benefits.
Additional Toll Increases in New Jersey
Apart from the toll increases in New York, drivers in New Jersey also face heightened costs for travel. Tollbooths on the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway will incur a 3% increase, impacting drivers whether they are heading into the city or not.
As the cost of maintaining roads increases, drivers in New Jersey are bracing for the financial strain. AAA’s Robert Sinclair emphasized the necessity of these toll hikes for road upkeep, highlighting the importance of well-maintained roads for vehicle longevity.
With these financial challenges ahead, drivers in New Jersey are gearing up for a bumpy ride as they navigate the toll increases and congestion pricing in the coming days.
