The Broadway Association Criticizes New York City’s $15 Congestion Toll

The head of the Broadway Association, a business group representing the Broadway Theater District and Times Square, has expressed strong opposition to New York City’s plan to implement a $15 “congestion” toll to enter the Midtown business district. Cristyne Nicholas, the chairwoman of the Broadway Association, believes that this toll will hinder the growth of the city’s tourist mecca.

Concerns for Broadway Theaters

Nicholas argues that the toll will particularly impact the bridge and tunnel people who make up about 30% of Broadway audiences and have been the slowest to return since the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes that Broadway is already facing challenges due to remote work and concerns about crime, which are making tourists from the New York suburbs and New Jersey hesitant to visit Manhattan. Nicholas believes that congestion pricing will only further impede Broadway’s recovery and success.

Economic Recovery and Tourism

Nicholas points out that New York City has not fully recovered economically from the pandemic. She states that the city has changed significantly in the past five years, with Broadway and the city as a whole facing new challenges. Nicholas believes that congestion pricing will discourage visitors from coming into Manhattan, negatively impacting businesses in the area.

Alternative Solutions

The Broadway Association suggests that there should be a different approach to address congestion and raise funds for mass transit. Nicholas proposes tolling all bridges at a lower but uniform rate to discourage toll avoidance and redirect traffic to other parts of the city. Currently, some of the East River crossings are toll-free, which contributes to congestion in certain areas.

The Congestion Pricing Plan

Under the proposed congestion pricing plan, passenger car drivers entering Manhattan south of 60th Street during daytime hours would be charged $15.50, with a reduced off-peak rate of $3.75. Small trucks would face a fee of $24, while large trucks would be charged $36 during daytime hours. To alleviate traffic congestion during commuting hours, these tolls would be discounted to $6 and $9, respectively, at night.

Political Support and Opposition

The congestion pricing initiative has received mixed reactions. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Democratic-led state Senate and Assembly approved the law in 2019, establishing the Traffic Mobility Review Board. Governor Kathy Hochul has shown support for the plan, attending a pro-congestion pricing rally. However, Mayor Eric Adams has requested exemptions from the toll for essential trips. In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy and some Democrats have opposed the implementation of congestion pricing. Republicans in New York plan to use this issue against Democratic opponents in the 2024 elections.

While the tolling program has gained support from mass transit and environmental advocates, as well as some business groups like the Real Estate Board of New York, concerns remain about its potential impact on Broadway and tourism in New York City.