Congestion pricing is underway in New York, a plan that has many supporters and detractors. The trucking industry is among those feeling the impacts.
Joe Fitzpatrick is concerned about the impact of congestion pricing on his business, Lighting Express Delivery. Up to 20 percent of that comes from deliveries to New York, and to continue delivering there, Fitzpatrick said he’s had to add extra to offset the cost.
“After looking at our few routes over the last few days, it’s not going to be enough,” Fitzpatrick said. “So we’re going to have to increase that amount and who knows if we’re going to lose customers or business or stop doing business in New York?
This policy of division has been condemned by some and welcomed by others. It charges anyone entering Manhattan below 60th Street a toll of up to $32, depending on the time of day, payment method and vehicle type.
David Banks, a professor of geography and planning at the University at Albany, said the policy has many benefits.
“Reductions in air pollution, noise and fewer people driving will be able to get to where they need to go on time,” Banks said. “It also frees up space for surface-level transit, like buses that won’t be delayed because they’re stuck in traffic with everyone else.
Banks believe it is too early to say whether the plan aims to reduce congestion. But the toll could ultimately be beneficial for contractors or other professionals who might have to deal with less traffic to get to their jobs.
“If anything, they’ll see their income increase because they have to drive and they won’t be competing for road space, which will allow them to get around more quickly,” Banks said.
Fitzpatrick said he hadn’t seen it yet. But as president of the Trucking Association of New York, he worries about the impact it could have on small delivery and trucking companies like his.
“The big companies have the volume going to New York City,” Fitzpatrick said. “They could probably absorb it, or charge very little extra. But something compared to me where $14.60 a piece adds up very quickly.
The trucking association still hopes to overturn the current toll pricing. They filed suit against the MTA last May, claiming the plan unfairly targeted trucking companies.