1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the recently implemented congestion pricing initiative in New York City. While I appreciate the environmental and traffic management goals behind this policy, I believe it disproportionately impacts residents from outside NYC, particularly those from Albany and other parts of New York State. As a resident of Albany, I understand the importance of reducing congestion and improving public transit within New York City. However, the $9 per day charge is, in my view, excessively high, especially when considering the cumulative cost for those of us who do not live in the city. For example, a weekend trip to NYC for a Mets game or a cultural event now incurs an additional $18 in congestion tolls ($9 each way), on top of existing tolls for highways and city bridges. This added expense significantly increases the cost of visiting NYC for recreational or personal reasons, potentially pricing out many New Yorkers who live outside the city. Driving from Albany to NYC already includes a financial burden due to tolls on major routes like the New York State Thruway and the bridges into the city. The congestion pricing adds an additional layer of cost that many might find prohibitive, especially during times when public transportation options from Albany to specific NYC destinations like Citi Field are not as convenient or cost-effective as driving. My concerns are not isolated; I believe many New Yorkers, particularly those from areas like Albany, share this sentiment. The initiative, while well-intentioned, risks creating a divide where only those with higher disposable incomes can afford regular visits to NYC. This could have long-term negative effects on the cultural and economic exchange between NYC and upstate New York. I would like to propose that consideration be given to: 1. Implementing a discount or exemption for non-NYC, NYS residents who are already contributing to the state's economy through other tolls and taxes. This could help mitigate the financial impact on those who need to drive into the city for various reasons. 2. Enhancing public transportation options that directly benefit those from regions like Albany, making it more feasible and attractive to use public transit instead of personal vehicles for travel to NYC. 3. Reviewing the congestion pricing structure to ensure it does not unfairly burden those outside the immediate NYC area, perhaps by considering a tiered pricing model or off-peak discounts for visitors. I am hopeful that these concerns will be taken into account, ensuring that the congestion pricing initiative serves its purpose without alienating or financially straining a significant portion of New Yorkers. Your leadership in addressing these issues would be greatly appreciated by many of us in Albany and across the state. Thank you for your time and consideration.