Tuesday, 17 July 2007
New York City congestion charge plan put on hold by State Senate
« Domestic and import vehicles nearing 50/50 in U.S. market share | Main | Porsche boosts output (and fuel efficiency?) on all-new turbocharged 911 GT2 »At an Earth Day speech this past April, NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced a plan to reduce congestion in Manhattan by requiring motorists to pay a fee for passing below 86th street during business hours. Drivers of cars would have to fork over $8 each, while truckers would be hit with $21 bills. London, England currently has a similar program in place to relieve traffic jams.
According to The New York Times, however, Bloomberg’s proposal has fallen on deaf ears in the New York State Senate. Despite intense discussions between Bloomberg and Senate Democrats, the Senate adjourned without addressing Bloomberg’s plan. Several Democrats were apparently put-off by Bloomberg’s tone of argument, and vowed to block the measure. Knowing that Republican support would not be there, the issue was ignored.
Next spring congestion fees will reportedly be examined again after a study commission determines other ways to relieve urban congestion.
Source: The New York Times
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