Architects and transit officials have raised concerns over the well-being of New York's transit infrastructure after the plan to tax automobile drivers entering the city was paused by the state government.
The New York chapter of the American Insitute of Architects (AIA) and notable architects such as WXY Architecture founder Claire Weisz have raised alarms after a recent announcement that paused legislation aimed at reducing automobile congestion in Manhattan by charging a "congestion price" for vehicles entering the city.
The tax would have in part gone into backing financing for a $15 billion (£11.7) billion funding package meant to help fund repairs for the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA), the state-run body that manages New York's transportation infrastructure. "The health and welfare of the most vulnerable New Yorkers depends on bold climate action and public transportation," said Weisz.
"New York needs congestion pricing now to raise $1 billion annually for the MTA, reclaim streets as public spaces, reduce emissions and improve air quality, and encourage transit use."
"Supporting NYC's economic recovery from COVID means investing in the 71 per cent of New Yorkers who ride transit, walk, and bike."
"Circumstances have changed," said governor Hochul
The New York Times reported that governor Hochul had announced an indefinite suspension on a tolling pricing initiative that would charge commuters $15 to enter parts...