The state Senate is scheduled to vote Monday on a congestion pricing plan for commuters who drive into parts of Manhattan.
Lawmakers have to announce their support for New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg's plan by Monday in order for the government to keep the city in the running for federal funding of the plan. Some officials believe a letter of commitment from leaders might be enough to meet the deadline without a vote.City officials say it will cost millions to get the pricing plan off the ground. Bloomberg wants drivers to pay $8 to enter Manhattan below 86th Street between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Truck drivers would pay $21.
State Sen. Dean Skelos and other Long Island lawmakers oppose Bloomberg. "I think it's unfair to Long Island commuters and suburban commuters to have to pay a fee for the privilege of working in New York City," Skelos said.
Skelos wants the city to spend more money on improving public transportation before charging drivers.
Mark Israel drives to Manhattan from Woodmere about four times a week. "[It's] another way of sucking people dry of their money. It's just not fair," Israel said.
However, some Long Islanders disagree, saying less traffic wouldn't be so bad. "I think it's a good idea," said Robert Oro, of Valley Stream. "I mean, I'm not a driver."