Traffic Good, Congestion Pricing Bad [Patreon Preview]

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May 29, 2025

Bumper-to-bumper traffic: an American right? Unpacking the 'car brain' mentality reveals the complexities of congestion pricing. This strategy aims to reduce traffic while funding public transportation. Foot traffic brings economic perks to urban areas, yet car culture persists. Comedic tales intertwine with insights on how tolls affect commuting choices. Finally, the debate on NYC's congestion pricing highlights media narratives and political dynamics shaping public opinion. Can we overcome the challenges for a greener commute?

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INSIGHT

How Congestion Pricing Works

Congestion pricing balances road supply and demand by charging a fee to reduce traffic congestion.
The collected fees are typically reinvested to improve public transportation accessibility and quality.

insights

INSIGHT

NYC Congestion Pricing Details

New York City's congestion pricing started in January 2025 charging $9 per day for cars entering below 61st Street.
It generates about $500 million annually to fund public transit improvements via the MTA.

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INSIGHT

Positive Impact of Congestion Pricing

Congestion pricing in NYC led to 65% fewer delays at the Holland Tunnel and 48% faster travel times.
It also increased subway ridership and retail sales, highlighting its success in reducing traffic and boosting foot traffic.

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Managing Urban Traffic: The Case for Congestion Pricing

02:17 • 10min

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The Benefits of Foot Traffic Over Car Culture

11:50 • 2min

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The Burden of Traffic and the Promise of Congestion Pricing

13:43 • 2min

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Trains, Tolls, and Transportation Tales

15:41 • 5min

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Navigating the Controversy of Congestion Pricing in NYC

20:51 • 5min

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Sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic is my god-given right as an American.

Listen to the full episode on our Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/deniersplaybook)

TELL GOV. HOCHUL TO FIGHT FOR CONGESTION PRICING (if you live in New York state): +1 (518) 474-8390 or https://www.governor.ny.gov/content/governor-contact-form

SAMPLE SCRIPT: I’m a New York state resident and I am reaching out to urge Gov. Hochul to continue supporting New York City’s Congestion Pricing plan and fight against the federal government’s insane attempts to shut it down. This policy has already decreased traffic congestion, reduced travel times for people of all income brackets traveling into the city, increased business-friendly foot traffic in the city, and raised much needed revenues to improve our public transportation system. We cannot allow the federal government to bully our state into reversing a popular and effective policy, and I ask that you continue doing everything in your power to make sure the policy remains in effect. Thank you.

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DISCLAIMER: Some media clips have been edited for length and clarity.

CREDITS

Created by: Rollie Williams, Nicole Conlan & Ben Boult
Hosts: Rollie Williams & Nicole Conlan
Executive Producer: Ben Boult
Editors: Laura Conte & Ben Boult
Producers: Daniella Philipson
Fact Checking: Carly Rizzuto
Music: Tony Domenick
Art: Jordan Doll
Special Thanks: The Civil Liberties Defense Center, Charles Komanoff, Jon Orcutt & Matt Nelsen

SOURCES

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