Diverse coalitions helped get the nation’s first congestion pricing program implemented. Other cities can follow their lead and see similar benefits, says the leader of a transit advocacy group.
Eleven months ago, New York launched the nation’s first congestion relief program — a policy long praised by transit riders, policy wonks and environmentalists alike, with precedent in cities around the world. New York’s congestion pricing effort languished for decades in political gridlock, most notably a longstanding argument between the city and its suburbs, an issue that too often pits drivers against transit riders.
The good news is that this way of thinking is evolving. Political and business leaders are finally recognizing that economic growth, sustainability and livable cities and regions go hand in hand. When transit does well, drivers do well, too — as does the regional economy.
