New York transit officials see a “slight” improvement in Manhattan traffic after the controversial congestion pricing went into effect on Sunday.
New York City’s new $9 toll to enter Manhattan below 60th Street is expected to raise $15 billion to improve transit systems.
Officials hope the new law will encourage more people to get out of their cars and use public transportation.
Drivers faced a typical Monday morning commute after the pricing went into effect on January 5.
Photos show traffic flowing smoothly on Manhattan’s Upper East Side on Tuesday morning.
The city’s transit officials say the extra revenue will pay for improving transit and encourage more people to use public transportation.
On Tuesday, officials announced a slight improvement in traffic patterns on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
But on the Upper West Side, traffic seemed to be much busier on Tuesday, with cars lining the streets on West End Avenue.
The MTA reported no major issues. Officials are cracking down on drivers who obscure their license plates or use “ghost plates,” to avoid paying the new toll.
“Drivers who obscure their license plate think they are above the law and put everyone at risk,” NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. “By expanding the definition of what is illegal, we will be able to hold reckless drivers accountable and create safer and more accessible streets for all.”
“Ensuring public safety is a shared responsibility among all road users, and our vigilant enforcement of traffic rules advances our mission to make people safe, to make them feel safe, and to improve overall quality of life in our city,” Tisch added.
Drivers who obscure their license plates will be fined $50 and their cars will be towed.
