'Still Have Hope' Congestion Pricing Will Get Overturned: Clavin

HEMPSTEAD, NY — It's back to work for many, and a new wrinkle is part of the commute. The state's congestion pricing went into effect on Sunday, meaning most drivers will pay $9 to enter the city below 60th Street during daytime peak hours.

But, Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin said they "still have hope" that it can get rescinded with cases pending in state and federal court.

"People see it for what exactly it is — this is nothing but a money grab," Clavin told Patch.

Governor Hochul's congestion pricing fee is the first of its kind in the country.

However, Clavin is angered that the state is forcing drivers to pay extra or use mass transit, as subways see a rise in crime, including a woman burned to death recently.

"There are many reasons people don't want to ride the subway, or can't," he said.

Hochul's plan was initially put on pause until after Election Day.

"I just found the governor's way of handling this disingenuous," Clavin said.

Barring the legal challenges, the average commuter, Clavin said, "is stuck with this."

Another way for congestion pricing to get overturned is getting relief from incoming President Trump with a bipartisan Congress that "will take steps to eliminate this unfair burden."

For those heading into Manhattan during overnights and weekends, the charge drops down to $2.25.