Hochul contemplating reintroducing congestion pricing: Opinions
The Topic: Governor Hochul Considers Reintroducing Congestion Pricing After November Elections
Governor Hochul is contemplating the reintroduction of the congestion pricing program that had been put on hold, but only after the November elections (“Kat rethinks congestion,” Aug. 19).
If this is truly a beneficial policy, why not implement it immediately? If the Governor believes it is favorable among constituents, then why delay the process?
However, the reality is that a majority of individuals oppose this initiative, viewing it as an additional tax on an already financially burdened populace. Meanwhile, the MTA continues to squander millions of dollars, with thousands of individuals evading transit fares daily without facing consequences.
The most effective solution would be to address those individuals who avoid paying their fares by implementing measures to ensure they contribute. By doing so, the $700 million shortfall could be eliminated without imposing additional costs on the general public. This approach is just, straightforward, and equitable.
Richard Rafal
Manhattan
Instead of focusing on congestion pricing, the MTA should prioritize addressing fare evasion. If all commuters paid their fare, there would be no need for congestion pricing.
Every day on my bus rides, I witness individuals taking advantage of free rides, whether by entering through the back door or being allowed on by the bus driver without payment.
Ezra Ini, Queens
It’s time to acknowledge that congestion pricing is not a solution to the congestion issues in Manhattan.
It is merely a tactic for the MTA to generate additional revenue to compensate for its inflated budget and ineffective management. Congestion pricing will not alleviate traffic congestion.
The congestion in Manhattan is a result of various factors, such as permanently closed main thoroughfares, numerous bike lanes, strict parking regulations, and temporary dining setups.
Harvey Strickon
Great Neck
The Governor may believe she has found a compromise to satisfy both the MTA and opponents of congestion pricing in New York, but this is deceiving.
Albany could initially establish a low charge, for instance, $2, only to later increase the toll, as seen with tolls on bridges and tunnels in the past.
Once congestion pricing is introduced, it will be challenging to reverse the decision.
John Giriat
The Bronx
The Topic: President Biden’s Late-Night Speech at the Democratic National Convention
President Biden’s speech at the convention portrayed him as a respectable, patriotic family man, revealing certain blind spots in the process (“Welcome to the late late Joe,” Aug. 20).
Biden once again asserted that America is progressing rather than regressing, which is evidently not accurate. This type of rhetoric aimed at the electorate demonstrates that Democrats are not above distorting reality, similar to MAGA Republicans.
Furthermore, Biden’s image of having a “big heart” appears insincere in light of the Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East, resulting in the disproportionate loss of life among Palestinians in Gaza. This calls into question Biden’s purported compassion.
Kimball Shinkoskey
Woods Cross, Utah
Why was Biden relegated to a later time slot? How can the President of the United States be sidelined?
The compassion displayed towards him by Democrats seems contrived. Genuine compassion is lacking within that party.
Mindy Rader
New City
It is worth noting that Biden did not attempt to disrupt the convention and reclaim the nomination from Vice President Kamala Harris, contrary to former President Donald Trump’s unfounded claims.
Vin Morabito
Scranton, Pa.
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