Kathy Hochul Celebrates Congestion Pricing Success at One-Year Mark

By Y.M. Lowy

One year after New York City launched its congestion pricing program, officials are celebrating measurable improvements in traffic and air quality. Since January 5, 2025, the program has reduced the number of vehicles entering Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone by 27 million in its first year, an 11 percent decrease. Drivers are experiencing faster commutes across the city, with morning traffic speeds up by an average of 23 percent at major crossings into the zone.

Air quality has improved, with pollution down 22 percent in the zone, and citywide noise complaints from traffic decreased by 17 percent. Streets are safer as well: crashes within the zone are down 7 percent and traffic injuries down 8 percent, while pedestrian and cyclist fatalities have also declined.

The congestion pricing program has generated over $550 million in net revenue during its first year, allowing the MTA to move forward with $15 billion in transit improvements. More than $6 billion of these projects are already underway, benefiting millions of commuters across the city.

Williamsburg residents and drivers crossing the East River are noticing faster trips: the Williamsburg Bridge has seen traffic speeds improve by 28.3 percent, cutting travel time for motorists, delivery vehicles, and buses entering Manhattan.

For many commuters, congestion pricing has meant faster trips and less gridlock—but it has also added a noticeable cost to travel. While the program has benefits for traffic and transit funding, drivers are adjusting to the higher fees. It’s a trade-off: smoother streets and cleaner air come at a price, and for now, it’s become a part of city life.