A statewide poll from Siena College released Monday, April 22nd, revealed that most New York voters are against introducing a $15 congestion toll for Midtown Manhattan, aimed at reducing traffic and raising funds for mass transit.
The poll found that 63% of voters across New York State are opposed to the toll, with only 25% in favor of the proposed pricing scheme.
The poll also highlighted that opposition to the toll crosses all demographic lines, including 72% of suburban voters, 72% of Black voters, and even 54% of Democrats, despite the plan being backed by Governor Kathy Hochul and the MTA.
Steven Greenberg, a Siena College pollster, explained the broad-based resistance, saying, “A majority of Democrats, two-thirds of independents, and three-quarters of Republicans oppose the soon-expected congestion pricing toll plan, as do approximately two-thirds of downstaters and a majority of upstaters.”
Greenberg added, “Nearly one-third of New Yorkers say they will either travel less to Manhattan or find ways other than driving to get there. It will be interesting to see if those positions hold steady once the toll is implemented.”
The congestion pricing imposes a $15 fee on vehicles entering Manhattan south of 60th Street during peak hours, with a reduced rate of $3.25 during overnight hours.
The survey also touched on several other important points.
A large 67% of voters expressed support for banning transgender athletes from competing against girls in high school sports.
Views on national and state leadership were bleak, with 64% of voters feeling the U.S. is on the wrong track and President Biden’s disapproval rating stands at 55% in the traditionally Democratic-leaning state.
Governor Hochul’s approval ratings are struggling; only 40% of voters view her favorably.
Furthermore, voters are also concerned about the influx of migrants, with 82% considering it a serious problem and a majority disapproving of the handling of the crisis by Biden, Hochul, and NYC Mayor Eric Adams.
The poll also revealed that 76% of voters think shoplifting is a major issue for New York stores, and 55% believe crime in the city has worsened.
On international matters, voters are split on U.S. support for Israel, but a majority supports increased aid to Ukraine.
