Federal judge in Newark, New Jerseyrejected the state's request to halt implementation of New York City's controversial congestion pricing plan.
The ruling allows the plan to begin as scheduled on Sunday, he said Fox 5.
New Jersey leaders who filed the lawsuit against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority claimed that environmental studies conducted by the agency were inadequate.
Judge Leo Gordon previously said regulators should limit how much money New Jersey communities will receive to reduce the potential pollution impacts of congestion pricing. But he did not say whether the fees could take effect.
Federal judge rules on congestion pricing in New York City; Interpretation varies between parties
A federal judge in Newark, New Jersey, has rejected the state's request to halt implementation of New York City's controversial congestion pricing plan. (Getty Images)
In his ruling on Friday, Gordon said there was no basis for delaying the tally.
New Jersey state attorney Randy Mastro said he plans to file an appeal to block congestion pricing from starting.
MTA President Janno Lieber applauded the ruling, noting the potential benefits of congestion pricing.
NYPD makes arrest in fatal stabbing of on-duty postal worker
The ruling allows the plan to begin as scheduled on Sunday. (Getty Images)
“We've been studying this issue for five years, but it only takes about five minutes if you're in midtown Manhattan to see that New York has a real traffic problem,” Lieber said at a news conference. “I realize there's been a lot of controversy around this program, and there's a lot of people who are concerned about the impact of congestion pricing. For them, I want to say the goal is to make the city better for everyone.”
Congestion pricing is expected to generate billions in revenue for the upgrade New York Transportation infrastructure, but has faced criticism from New Jersey officials and commuters who say it places an unfair burden on people driving from outside New York.
MTA President Janno Lieber applauded the ruling, noting the potential benefits of congestion pricing. (Getty Images)
Some riders may face daily fees of up to $22, which may include current toll fees Port Authority crossings.
President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly said he intends to block the plan after he takes office later this month.
