What’s the future of congestion charging in the U.S.?
New York City was to be a test bed for congestion charging. Now what?
New York City was set to join Stockholm, Singapore, and London as another major metropolitan area putting congestion charging in place to reduce traffic in the downtown core while also reducing emissions and raising revenue for the transit system. But last week New York Governor Kathy Hochul put an indefinite pause on NYC’s congestion plans just ahead of them coming into effect on June 30th. This unexpected reversal has thrown a wrench into the NY Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) systemwide improvement plans that took years to develop, at the same time as it’s in the midst of a leadership transition with the departure of Rich Davey.
We’ve talked a lot about congestion charging on Transit Unplugged over the years including segments from outgoing MTA President Rich Davey and Andy Lord of Transport for London. Each interview talks about how congestion charges reduce traffic and emissions, while giving transit agencies a much needed financial boost.
Which begs the question:
What will happen to congestion charging in NYC now?
We might not have any answers yet, but this week’s guest Matthew Daus has some ideas and strong opinions on the topic. Paul recorded this interview with Matthew just hours after the announcement and they talk about why Gov. Hochul cancelled the plan, what the MTA is going to need to do now, and how Matthew would implement a congestion charging plan in NYC.
Paul and Matthew continue their conversation with praise for Rich Davey, outgoing President of the MTA, and another hot topic in transit: policing to combat rising violence and crime on transit.
This is one of those interviews sure to get people talking about congestion charging on both sides of these issues. Don’t miss this chance to hear what one of North America’s leading transit pundits thinks about congestion charging and policing on transit.
Coming up next week on Transit Unplugged: Erick Van Wagenen
We all know contracting in public transit is an essential part of how North American agencies deliver services. Contracting out some, or all, of their transit operations gives agencies space to focus on delivering better transit to their communities, while tapping into the tremendous knowledge and experience large contracting companies have.
Next week, Paul chats with Erick Van Wagenen, CEO of WeDriveU (formerly National Express) about the value of contractors, and how their unique mix of experience and wide networks help deliver better transit services for their customers.
From zero emissions to best practices to increase ridership, contractors like National Express are a vital part of the transit ecosystem.
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Hang out with some Haligonians in Halifax on Transit Unplugged TV
You got a taste of Halifax last week with Dave Reage’s podcast episode and the trailer for the Halifax episode, now you get to see the whole donair, or lobster roll, or whatever the Halifax substitute for an enchilada is.
Halifax is an amazing port city with a deep history from the Titanic and the Great Halifax Explosion to its role as Canada’s immigration gateway. As Paul tours Halifax with Dave Reage, his team, and a few special guests, you get a sense of what really makes Halifax special.
You’ll learn about the city’s ambitious climate action plan, HalifACT, that is driving meaningful changes to Halifax; like the new electric buses that are being tested now and the all-electric ferries that will serve the new Mill Cove Ferry Terminal.
From historic sites like the Halifax Citadel Fort to innovative future transit plans, this episode is packed with history, food, and modern marvels that make Halifax truly special. Don’t miss it!
