NEW YORK — Mayor Eric Adams’ administration has entered a legal battle by joining a lawsuit with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to challenge the Trump administration’s attempts to abolish congestion pricing.
The MTA initially filed a lawsuit supported by Governor Kathy Hochul against the Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration in February. The city and state departments of transportation have now joined the legal case, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the transit authority.
Reaffirmation of Congestion Pricing
John J. McCarthy, the MTA’s chief of policy and external relations, emphasized that congestion pricing is here to stay. He dismissed the arguments put forth by Secretary Duffy as lacking merit in a recent court filing.
President Donald Trump had moved to eliminate the toll shortly after taking office, but an agreement was reached to maintain it at least until early fall.
This action by Mayor Adams starkly contrasts his previous stance of not criticizing Trump, especially after the dismissal of federal corruption charges against him by the Department of Justice.
While Adams has been reserved in his comments regarding the tolling program that charges drivers to enter Manhattan below 60th Street, recent developments show a shift in his approach.
Support for Lawsuit
The city’s corporation counsel submitted a memorandum in support of the lawsuit, indicating a unified front against attempts to dismantle congestion pricing. However, a response from Adams’ spokesperson is still awaited.
Despite being a Democrat, Adams has announced his intention to run for reelection as an independent. His lukewarm support for congestion pricing reflects the ongoing tensions between Trump and Hochul over the program’s future.
Reports suggest that Adams has maintained a close relationship with Trump, instructing senior officials not to criticize the president. This dynamic adds complexity to the legal battle surrounding congestion pricing.
Legal Standoff Continues
Trump’s vocal opposition to congestion pricing and his social media declaration of its demise have fueled the legal dispute. The lawsuit asserts that the administration’s directives are unlawful and emphasizes the commitment to uphold the program as mandated by New York law.
Efforts to seek clarification from the federal Department of Transportation have not yielded a response so far. Secretary Sean Duffy’s recent subway tour with Mayor Adams underscores the need for collaboration to enhance subway services amidst concerns about safety and ridership.
Duffy’s emphasis on improving the MTA’s performance aligns with Adams’ vision for efficient public transportation in New York City.
