New York City launched a $9 congestion toll to reduce traffic and improve air quality. A recent analysis by the city’s Health Department shows minimal impact on pollution levels after its first year. The report focused on four traffic-related pollutants inside the Congestion Relief Zone since the toll’s introduction.

The study reveals no statistically significant improvement in pollution attributed to the toll. However, city officials consider it the most comprehensive analysis of congestion pricing effects on air quality. Positive outcomes cited include reduced traffic, improved public transportation, and decreased noise.

The toll, endorsed by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, has cut traffic by 11% since its introduction; however, vehicles contribute only about 10% to New York City’s pollution. The city’s pollution predominantly comes from its dense building infrastructure, restaurants, and power plants, rather than vehicles.

Critics may use these findings to challenge the effectiveness of congestion pricing, arguing it burdens commuters and small businesses without delivering significant air quality benefits. Officials, including Governor Hochul, continue to support the toll, considering it a ‘success’ for reducing gridlock and funding mass transit improvements.

The toll applies to passenger vehicles entering Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone at or below 60th Street. E-ZPass users pay $9 during peak hours and $2.25 during off-peak hours, while others face higher toll-by-mail rates. Peak hours are weekdays from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., and weekends from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Prominent opponents of the toll include former President Donald Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who criticized it as a financial burden. Attempts to overturn the program’s federal approval were unsuccessful, with a federal judge ruling against the effort.

Despite no significant air quality improvement, the toll continues to fund mass transit upgrades in New York City, and officials maintain that reduced traffic remains a benefit. Critics highlight unfulfilled promises made by Governor Hochul, with some accusing the toll of being an unnecessary tax labeled as an environmental measure.