New Jersey Rep. Josh Gottheimer says New York's congestion pricing plan would rob Port Authority
NEW JERSEY -- New Jersey Rep. Josh Gottheimer, one of the most vocal opponents of New York's congestion pricing plan, is highlighting what he calls the hidden costs.
Gottheimer said the plan to charge drivers entering Manhattan's central business district takes critically-needed money from the Port Authority.
"If the MTA and New York City get their way, there could be a billion-dollar hole in funding for critical projects across New Jersey and across the region," said Gottheimer.
The congressman said the Port Authority stands to lose $125 million per year from fewer drivers using the Hudson River crossings.
Lost revenue could impact the Port Authority capital projects including renovating the George Washington Bridge, replacing the Lincoln Tunnel helix and repairing local airport infrastructure, he said.
At a press conference Thursday, MTA Chair Janno Lieber was asked about the figures mentioned by Gottheimer.
"They're not in any MTA reports and I have no idea where they came from, and any of that kind of work is based on complex modeling. So I have no idea who would've performed that kind of work," Lieber said.
In response, Gottheimer cited an MTA environmental assessment report from August 2022, which shows the MTA projects a 19.5% reduction in cars entering the Manhattan Central Business District from New Jersey under the congestion pricing plan.
"These are MTA's own numbers and reports that anyone can find online, and it's simple math. If there are about 20% fewer cars crossing into New York, then there will be about 20% less revenue for the Port Authority," Gottheimer said in a statement. "If their report is true, the Port Authority stands to lose around $125 million a year — more than $1.25 billion over the next decade in lost revenue. To make up lost revenue, the Port would likely have to raise tolls $2 or more to go over the GW Bridge or through the Holland or Lincoln — and institute a massive cut in the Port Authority's capital projects. That would be devastating to New Jersey families and commuters on both fronts."