Faster travel speeds and increased subway usage observed three weeks following the implementation of congestion pricing in New York City
The New York City Congestion Relief Zone (CRZ), introduced to ease traffic congestion during peak hours, is showing promising results. According to the MTA Bridges and Tunnels, the programme has been successful in encouraging the use of E-ZPass for discounted toll rates, resulting in a noticeable reduction in vehicle trips into the tolled area.
The CRZ, which sees an average of 490,000 vehicles entering on a weekday, has experienced a significant improvement in travel times. Across all river crossings, travel times have sped up by 10% to 30%. Major east-west routes within the CRZ, such as Canal Street and 34th Street, have recorded reduced travel times.
Express Bus riders have experienced the most notable gains, particularly on weekends. The Holland Tunnel has seen a nearly 50% improvement in morning rush-hour speeds, while transit ridership has risen overall within the CRZ. Public transport performance has improved, with bus speeds increasing significantly.
The data reveals that most vehicles entering the CRZ come from north of 60th Street (43%), with Brooklyn contributing 24% and Queens accounting for 16%. New Jersey contributes 17% of the vehicles entering the CRZ. Commercial truck drivers were the most affected by the introduction of the Congestion Relief Zone, with a significant shift in their travel patterns. Trips before peak hours increased by about 15-20%, while trips during peak hours declined correspondingly.
The MTA Bridges and Tunnels will present the New York City Congestion Relief Zone at this year's Road User Charging Conference in Brussels. The Akabo Media's Road User Charging Conference series, which includes events in Brussels (March 2025), Abu Dhabi (May 2025), Miami (September 2025), and Singapore (October 2025), will provide a platform for discussions on similar initiatives.
Non-E-ZPass users should be aware that they will receive higher-cost 'Tolls by Mail' bills. Updated congestion pricing data is now available through the NYS Open Data portal and the MTA's metrics portal.
In conclusion, the New York City Congestion Relief Zone tolling scheme is successfully reducing traffic congestion, making commuting within the city more efficient for residents and visitors alike.
