Rush hour in Manhattan, New York City.
News — ALBANY, N.Y. (Jan. 6, 2025) — A new toll has debuted this week for drivers entering the busiest part of the Big Apple during peak hours.
The toll, known as congestion pricing, is expected to reduce city traffic, improve the environment and raise money for public transit infrastructure. Drivers of most passenger cars will pay $9 to enter Manhattan south of Central Park on weekdays between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. and on weekends between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. During off hours, the toll will be $2.25 for most vehicles.
David Banks, a lecturer at the University at Albany’s Department of Geography & Planning, teaches courses in urban planning and community development. He’s also the author of “.”
Banks believes congestion pricing will help create a safer, healthier New York City.
“Congestion pricing works on a fairly simple economic theory that increasing cost decreases demand and shifts transportation to other modes like trains, buses and cycling. This is a tried-and-true transportation planning tool that has been used in Singapore since the 70s and has also been used in similar-sized cities like London and smaller (but still large) cities like Milan and Stockholm.
“I fully expect that after several months of lowered car traffic people will begin to feel safer riding their bikes and buses will see fewer delays.”
Banks is available to offer more insight on congestion pricing via phone, Zoom/Skype or email. 
About the University at Albany: 
The is one of the most diverse public research institutions in the nation and a national leader in educational equity . As a Carnegie-classified R1 institution, UAlbany and its faculty and students are creating critical new knowledge in fields such as artificial intelligence, atmospheric and environmental sciences, business, education, public health, social sciences, criminal justice, emergency preparedness, engineering, informatics, public administration and social welfare. Our courses are taught by an accomplished roster of with student success at the center of everything we do. Through our parallel commitments to academic excellence, scientific discovery and service to community, UAlbany molds bright, curious and engaged leaders and launches great careers. 
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