Supporters seem to be ahead of Manhattan congestion pricing opponents
NEW YORK (PIX11) -- Half of the public hearings on congestion pricing have wrapped up, MTA officials say the number of supporters seems to be ahead of the opponents.
Two more hearings at MTA headquarters are scheduled for Monday. Comments can also be submitted online.
A $15 fee for most cars has been proposed with a $5 credit for drivers using the tunnels.
Some firefighters brought their gear to a media briefing outside. They are requesting an exemption for firefighters.
Fire crews say they use their personal vehicles for work as they move between firehouses.
Exemptions are a common topic presented to MTA officials at the public comment sessions.
MTA Chairman Janno Lieber says he is sympathetic to the firefighter's point.
"How do we define work vehicles? We are still in conversation with the city. If we have a lot of exemptions, everybody ends up paying more on the base toll," he said.
Some exemptions have already been included in the framework created by lawmakers in 2019. Government vehicles doing official work are exempt. People with disabilities can also apply.
Neighbors living in the zone who make $60,000 or less can apply for a tax credit at the end of the year. Residents want that to change and be available for everyone who lives south of 61st Street.
The board will get a report of the comments and have a public discussion and vote.
Judges must rule on 2 lawsuits brought by opponents of environmental studies.
The MTA says they followed the procedure and expect it to begin in June.