What's The Deal? Govs. Murphy, Cuomo At Odds Over Congestion Pricing Plan
TRENTON, N.J. (CBSNewYork) – Congestion pricing will affect commuters in both New York and New Jersey.
So has a deal been worked out between the two states? That depends who you ask.
Deal or no deal? There seems to be confusion between the power players on whether or not an agreement has been made when it comes to congestion pricing in New York City, set to start in 2021.
Gov. Phil Murphy says New Jersey residents shouldn't worry, he's made it a deal to save drivers from paying twice, CBS2's Meg Baker reported.
MORE: Exactly How Will NYC Congestion Pricing Fees Work?
"Everybody commuting from New Jersey gets treated equally, don't get taxed doubly, including on the GWB," Murphy said. "New Jersey will have a seat at the table as this evolves over the next several years."
But Gov. Andrew Cuomo says that's not the case and nothing is set in stone.
Adding more confusion, the head of the Metropolitan Transportation Association says the agency has "no idea" what Murphy is talking about.
Web Extra: Gov. Phil Murphy Discusses Congestion Pricing Deal
Chairman and CEO Patrick Foye released a statement.
"With all due respect to Governor Murphy, we have no idea what he is talking about. No agreement has been reached with New Jersey or anyone else on credits, exemptions or carveouts," Foye said.
"Do you feel like Patrick Foye with the MTA is calling you a liar when it comes to this deal, saying he has no idea what you are talking about?" Baker asked Murphy.
"You have to ask the New York side... my words come directly from a conversation with Governor Cuomo," Murphy said.
Starting in 2021, drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street will be charged a toll. That means New Jersey drivers could be hit twice.
MORE: New Jersey Lawmakers Push Back Against Cuomo's Congestion Pricing Plan
"It's already expensive enough to go over the toll. You know, they keep raising prices," said New Jersey resident David Lerner. "I find myself picking random people off the side of the road to get the discount."
Murphy met with Cuomo last week and after he said Cuomo guaranteed a credit or discount to toll payers at all Hudson River crossings.
But Thursday, Cuomo reiterated that no conclusions will be reached by the MTA until studies are completed.
"I think it's a game. I don't know, it sounds like a game. I'm not sure it's a game they play," said Fairview resident Tommy Popov.
The MTA's study is expected to take two years. Murphy says it will be a long, complicated process, but he will not back down. Murphy says he and Cuomo did not discuss whether New Jersey would get any of the money generated by the plan.
Asked if he'[ll bring it up in the future, Murphy said "We'll see."
