Manhattan-bound commuters from New Jersey might be facing an additional financial burden of $5,000 per year, thanks to the approval of New York City's controversial congestion pricing plan by President Joe Biden's administration.
Despite the persistent efforts of Governor Phil Murphy and New Jersey's congressional delegation, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) dismissed their request for a more thorough environmental assessment. Governor Murphy argued that the 4,000-page environmental assessment submitted by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority failed to adequately address the environmental impact on New Jersey and the potential financial strain our state would endure due to increased ridership on New Jersey Transit trains and buses.
Expressing disappointment, a spokesperson for Governor Murphy released a statement questioning the motives of the financially struggling agency, which has shown little meaningful engagement with our Administration on this matter.
Governor Murphy has taken the step of engaging a law firm to explore all available legal options and intends to announce the next course of action publicly in the near future.
In a united front, New Jersey's congressional delegation, which includes Senator Bob Menendez and Congressman Josh Gottheimer, pledged to continue their fight. They insist that no solution can be considered valid as long as New Jersey remains excluded from the decision-making process.
Can the people handle another toll increase? I don't think so...
