The city’s new congestion pricing program, scheduled to take effect next year, could mean billions in new transit funding.

What will New York City’s congestion pricing program—now in its final planning stages—mean for public transit? As Stephen Nessen explains in Gothamist, the program is required by a 2019 state law to “bring in at least $1 billion a year for the MTA.”
Nessen adds, “The agency must use that money to finance $15 billion in bonds to pay for mass transit improvements included in its 2020-2024 capital plan — which was formed in the aftermath of New York City’s 2017 “summer of hell” when the subways and commuter railroads fell into disrepair.” The money will fund the expansion of the Second Avenue subway, the Penn Access project, and accessibility improvements at subway and Long Island Rail stations, as well as more electric buses. The article points out that congestion pricing revenue cannot legally be used for balancing the agency’s operating deficit, as some critics have claimed.
The next step is coming up with a price structure and exempt groups. Already, “Drivers won’t pay if they remain on the West Side Highway or FDR Drive south of 60th Street. Low-income drivers who live in the congestion zone, emergency vehicles and cars transporting people with disabilities are also exempt.” New Jersey officials say Garden State residents who commute to New York should receive discounted rates, although a 2021 analysis revealed that, of the 1.6 percent of New Jersey commuters who would likely pay the toll, most are more affluent than the average resident.
FULL STORY: MTA’s congestion pricing plan means big upgrades for NYC transit

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.

Santa Barbara Could Build Housing on County Land
County supervisors moved forward a proposal to build workforce housing on two county-owned parcels.

San Mateo Formally Opposes Freeway Project
The city council will send a letter to Caltrans urging the agency to reconsider a plan to expand the 101 through the city of San Mateo.

A Bronx Community Fights to Have its Voice Heard
After organizing and giving input for decades, the community around the Kingsbridge Armory might actually see it redeveloped — and they want to continue to have a say in how it goes.
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