Larisa Manescu, larisa.manescu@sierraclub.org
NEW YORK CITY - Today, the New York Times reported that Donald Trump could attempt to halt New York City’s recently implemented congestion pricing program, which went into effect on January 5 for the Central Business District of Manhattan.
New York City is the world’s most-congested urban area for the second year in a row, costing the city over $9 billion in lost time. Last year, a typical NYC motorist lost over 100 hours stuck in traffic. The toxic pollution emitted by the nearly one million vehicles that enter Manhattan daily has also been tied to illnesses such as asthma and heart and lung diseases. The congestion pricing program will decrease this air pollution and deliver cleaner air for New Yorkers.
The program has been a success so far, with early reports of traffic dropping significantly and positive reports from MTA, including buses moving faster.
Sierra Club Executive Director Ben Jealous released the following statement:
“Donald Trump couldn’t be further out of touch with a typical commuter. Working New Yorkers have just begun enjoying the benefits of congestion pricing – less traffic and pollution, cleaner air. The program is working, and New York City should be proud of its leadership in addressing its notable congestion with an effective policy that invests the money into its subway. The Sierra Club showed up in support of congestion pricing, and we’ll resist any federal attack to rob the City of this important victory.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.