NYC Congestion Pricing Begins First Week: Here's What To Know

NEW YORK CITY — Congestion pricing begins its first week in effect, with drivers now being charged $9 to enter Manhattan south of 60th Street.

The purpose of the plan is to reduce gridlock in Manhattan's busiest areas and encourage public transit use, officials said.

Between 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends, drivers will be charged $9. All other times, drivers will be charged $2.25, Patch previously reported.

The charges will be recorded via camera tolls, the MTA said.

The plan is expected to generate more than $15 billion for public transportation upgrades in New York City, the MTA said.

Graphic credit: Metropolitan Transit Authority

Toll prices won't stay at $9 forever. The MTA plans to increase the toll charge to $12 in 2028, and then bump the price up to $15 in 2031.

However, drivers who earn less than $50,000 a year will get a 50 percent discount on every toll after the 10th toll each month, according to the MTA.

Vehicles using the West Side Highway, FDR Drive, and Hugh L. Carey tunnel are excluded from the tolls.

Emergency vehicles and government-owned vehicles are exempt from the toll, as are certain commuter and transit buses.

Click here to see more about discounts and exemptions for the congestion pricing program.