NY drivers likely to pay $20 tolls under congestion pricing plan

First programme of its kind in the US could be in place as soon as next spring

The first congestion pricing programme in the United States is taking final shape in New York City, and most drivers appear likely to pay US$15 (S$20) to enter some of the busiest streets in Manhattan as soon as next spring.

Transit officials on Nov 29 provided the clearest picture yet of the tolls they hope to implement to collect roughly US$1 billion annually to fund improvements to the subway and bus networks.

The programme faces a few hurdles, including a final vote by transit leaders and a legal challenge from New Jersey officials.

But after various failed attempts over decades, New York seems poised to join a handful of other global centres with a toll programme that aims to encourage the use of public transport, reduce pollution and unclog some of the world's most traffic-choked streets - roughly the southern third of Manhattan.

In a 19-page report, transit officials say cars would pay a toll of up to US$15 once per day, and commercial lorries would pay as much as US$36. Taxis will add US$1.25 per fare and ride-hail apps, including Uber and Lyft, will tack on an extra US$2.50 per ride.

The report also shows who will get the biggest discounts, credits and exemptions, which have been hotly debated questions. The recommendations were narrowed down from a list of possibilities that had been studied over the past year.