Daily News Briefs, May 12, 2023

This is a Subscribers-Only area. If you are a subscriber, please login. If not...

Become a Subscriber Today »

MTA Unveils EA And FONSI, Moving A Step Closer To Congestion Pricing Implementation

This morning, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and its state and city transportation department partners released the Central Business District Tolling Program Final Environmental Assessment (EA) and FHWA Draft Finding of No Significant Impact. The documents are now open for public review and comment through June 12, 2023.

In a news release, New Governor Kathy Hochul (D) stated, “This is a significant milestone, bringing us closer to a future where New Yorkers have cleaner air, better public transit and less traffic clogging our streets,” a message echoed in comments contributed by several lawmakers and representatives of environmental and transportation advocacy groups. During the 30-day comment period, Hochul said, MTA’s six-member Traffic Mobility Review Board (TMRB)  will meet to develop recommended toll rates, to include exemptions, discounts and toll credits. Thereafter, the MTA board (in its capacity as the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority board), will review the recommendations and issue a proposed rate structure that won’t become final until after a public comment period and a hearing. The release specifically noted that the final EA includes commitments by MTA and the other agencies to expand commitments to environmental justice communities. The document describes several “mitigation measures” incorporated in the tolling program to address potential adverse effects of congestion pricing on communities with many low-income and minority populations.

Congestion Pricing Environmental Protection Policies Procedures And Initiatives ETC Systems Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) New Jersey New York New York City New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) US Department of Transportation (USDOT)

Top


New Toll-Funded Transit Projects Under Consideration In Northern Virginia

The Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC) is considering 16 proposed transit projects for funding with $48 million in toll collections from metro WAshington’s I-395 and I-95 express lanes, WJLA reports. The biennial distribution helps to fund public transit options that allow people to avoid tolled travel. Of the 16 projects, staff have recommended 13 to the NVTC board, which will review the proposals at its June 1 meeting and forward recommendations to the Commonwealth Transportation Board for final action. The proposals can be viewed online at I-395/95 Commuter Choice FY 2024-25 Project Profiles. NVTC is accepting public comment until May 15. WJLA notes that in alternate years, NVTC accepts similar proposals for I-66 corridor projects funded with I-66 toll revenue proceeds.

66 Express Lanes (Inside DC Beltway) 66 Express Lanes (Outside DC Beltway) 95/395/495 Express Lanes (Metro Washington DC) Express Lanes Transit and Toll Roads Transurban Virginia Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Washington (DC) Metro Region

Top


These are just some of the toll industry developments TRN is following.

If you’re not already a Daily News Briefs subscriber and you want a complete picture of today’s news, click here or call 717-991-2823 for subscription information. If you’re a newcomer to TollRoadsNews.com, click here.

Top