Chancellor Kent Syverud | Syracuse University
Chancellor Kent Syverud | Syracuse University
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) of New York has decided to impose a $9 fee on vehicles entering Manhattan, aiming to address congestion issues. This decision has sparked discussions about the potential impact of such pricing on traffic and infrastructure.
Anne Mosher, an associate professor at the Maxwell School department of geography and the environment, is available for interviews regarding this topic. She specializes in urban planning and infrastructure and can provide insights into how similar policies have worked in other major cities. Interested parties can contact Ellen James Mbuqe, executive director of media relations, at ejmbuqe@syr.edu for more information.
Professor Mosher comments on the toll's potential effects: “The toll is likely to reduce certain congestion, particularly from daily commuters who could switch to public transportation, which is often more cost-effective. However, essential traffic—like delivery trucks and vehicles traveling to JFK and LaGuardia—will still need to traverse these areas, so the impact on overall congestion may be more nuanced.”
She also highlights the financial benefits for the MTA: “Yes. This revenue stream will help the MTA to fund critical infrastructure upgrades, like modernizing signals and adding accessibility features. Given potential uncertainties in federal funding for transportation, this local funding source becomes even more vital.”
Discussing examples from other cities that have implemented congestion pricing successfully, Professor Mosher mentions: “London and Stockholm are prominent success stories. Both cities saw significant drops in traffic congestion and improved air quality. They implemented flexible, income-sensitive pricing models, and their gradual rollouts allowed time for public transit adjustments."
She adds that San Francisco has used similar strategies effectively: "San Francisco has also utilized congestion pricing, particularly on bridges, to manage traffic flow effectively." She notes that this approach aligns with historical practices known as ‘pay-as-you-go’ funding for infrastructure projects.