MTA reports revenue boost from congestion pricing program in February

In February 2025, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) reported significant progress in its congestion pricing program in New York City, collecting $51.9 million, which represents an increase of $3.3 million from January. The revenue collected is a crucial part of the MTA's strategy to improve public transportation and fund infrastructure projects, including the ongoing extensions of the Second Avenue Subway. As part of the tolling system, different categories of vehicles entered the congestion zone, with 66% being passenger vehicles, 24% taxis or for-hire vehicles, 9% trucks, and a mere 1% buses and motorcycles. This data was shared during the MTA's March committee meetings, underlining the agency's commitment to enhancing overall mobility in the city. Furthermore, the MTA highlighted that the congestion pricing initiative has positively impacted bus speeds. The pilot program, initiated in mid-February 2025, aims to evaluate the necessary adjustments in bus schedules based on travel time improvements, particularly on key routes such as the M42, M50, and Q32. According to New York City Transit President Demetrius Crichlow, the lower congestion levels present a valuable opportunity to optimize bus schedules, including the possible removal of scheduled time points to maximize efficiency. This analysis is an integral part of the MTA’s continuous efforts to assess transportation dynamics within the city. In parallel, the MTA is progressing with the long-awaited Second Avenue Subway extension, which is being funded partly through the revenue generated by congestion pricing. The agency is preparing to vote on a $186 million contract for a consultancy firm to oversee the extension's construction, which will involve drafting additional contracts for underground excavation and building new stations. This massive project is expected to cost around $7.7 billion and, if successful, will significantly enhance commuter access in East Harlem, particularly for those wishing to connect with the Q train at 125th Street. The successful execution of these transportation initiatives relies heavily on the sustainable funding provided by congestion pricing, which the agency intends to ensure through careful financial strategizing. As congestion pricing continues to yield improvements in travel times, the MTA remains optimistic about reaching its year-end financial target of $500 million. With approximately $78 million from the received tolls designated for vital capital projects, the MTA is positioned to address both immediate and long-term infrastructure needs in the scope of New York City's complex transit landscape.