City Hall buzzed today as the NYC Council debated tweaks to congestion pricing, set for June 2025. Over 200 residents packed the chambers; drivers want lower $9 tolls, transit riders push for MTA funds. Councilmember Lena Torres, 45, proposed discounts for low-income commuters—cheers erupted. X posts on #CongestionNYC hit 8,000; opinions split. NYC’s traffic fix—tensions run high.
Torres’ plan caps tolls at $5 for earners under $50K; MTA projects $1B yearly revenue. Manhattan’s 60th Street boundary sparked ire—Queens drivers feel targeted. A Brooklyn advocate’s plea for subway upgrades drew nods; MTA’s 7 train delays cited. Data shows 15% traffic drop in test zones—proof it works? Council’s vote looms—May’s deadline nears.
It’s not smooth—taxi unions slammed exemptions; 50 protested outside. Some say tolls hit outer boroughs harder—equity concerns linger. Still, 200 voices, 3 hours—debate’s alive. Post-session, Chambers Street buzzed—flyers littered. NYC’s mobility—balance tough.
Torres’ 45—reform star? MTA’s funds—transit’s future. NYC argued; City Hall hummed. Pricing fight—onward.
