Lawsuit Filed to Block Tolls for Entering Manhattan
The Trucking Association of New York (TANY) has added its voice to the growing chorus of opposition against New York City’s first-ever congestion fee for vehicles entering Manhattan. The move comes as the controversial plan, set to launch on June 30th, faces multiple legal challenges.
Unequal Burden on Trucking Industry Cited in Lawsuit
TANY filed a federal lawsuit on Thursday against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the agency responsible for the toll scheme. The lawsuit argues that the higher fees – $24 to $36 per trip depending on truck size – unfairly target the trucking industry and violate the U.S. Constitution.
Trucking Association Calls for Plan Revision
Kendra Hems, president of TANY, emphasizes the inflexibility of truck routes and schedules dictated by client needs. This, she argues, means trucking companies cannot avoid peak-hour tolls, ultimately leading to increased costs passed on to consumers. She proposes revisions to the plan, including exempting the industry from the fee, limiting tolls to one per day for trucks, or charging them the same rate as passenger vehicles (around $15).
Higher Costs for Consumers Feared
Joe Fitzpatrick, a TANY board member and founder of Lightning Express Delivery Service, highlights the potential impact on consumers. “We deliver when our customers need us,” he explains, “which is during business hours.” He worries that the tolls will translate to higher prices for New Yorkers due to the crucial role the trucking industry plays in transporting goods.
Lawsuit Among Many Challenges to Congestion Fee Plan
TANY’s lawsuit is one of at least eight legal efforts seeking to block the congestion fee plan. The June 30th launch date remains uncertain as these legal challenges play out.
