With Congestion Relief Zone tolling set to begin on January 5, 2025, drivers heading into Manhattan should prepare for a sliding scale toll system, a detail not often discussed in recent media coverage. Rockland County has recently reinitiated its lawsuit to battle the congestion pricing plan, as discussed by County Executive Ed Day in a recent interview.
Rates will vary based on the time of day, type of vehicle, and additional factors such as crossing credits, discounts, and exemptions. Rates are also set to increase in future years, making this system an evolving cost for commuters.
Time-Based Sliding Scale Rates
Congestion tolls will be highest during peak hours, which are from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. Overnight rates (9 p.m. to 5 a.m.) are significantly reduced by 75%, providing a cost-effective alternative for those who can travel during off-peak hours.
Vehicle-Specific Rates
The type of vehicle you drive also determines the toll rate, with E-ZPass NY obviously offering the most economical options:
- Passenger Vehicles: $9 during peak hours, $2.25 overnight – this will increase to $12 in 2028, and $15 in 2031.
- Motorcycles: $4.50 during peak hours, $1.05 overnight
- Small Trucks and Some Buses: $14.40 during peak hours, $3.60 overnight
- Multi-Unit Trucks and Tour Buses: $21.60 during peak hours, $5.40 overnight
It should be noted that while commercial rates for trucks, buses and motorcycles were not announced – if the same math and percentages apply to those categories, prices for each category could potentially rise anywhere from 20-40% in coming years. For instance, the multi-unit truck price could rise to $28.80 in 2028 – assuming a similar 33% increase same as the residential rate.
For-hire vehicles licensed by the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission will face a smaller per-trip charge that is passed on to passengers, with rates of $1.50 for high-volume vehicles and $0.75 for taxis, green cabs, and black cars.
Credits, Discounts, and Exemptions
Drivers entering Manhattan through specific crossings, such as the Lincoln, Holland, Queens-Midtown, or Hugh L. Carey Tunnels, may qualify for a credit toward their toll. This credit can reduce costs by up to $3 for passenger vehicles, $1.50 for motorcycles, $7.20 for small trucks, and $12 for large trucks. However, these credits are not available during the discounted overnight period.
Discounts and exemptions are also available for certain vehicles, including emergency vehicles, qualifying buses, and vehicles transporting individuals with disabilities.
Future Rate Increases
The current rates are just the starting point. As the program progresses, tolls are expected to increase in the coming years to meet evolving funding and congestion reduction goals. Drivers should remain informed of potential rate changes.
Learn More
To help residents prepare, the MTA is hosting webinars on how the system works, its benefits, available discounts, and more. Visit the MTA website to register for a session or to view the full toll rate schedule.