A federal judge in Newark, New Jerseydenied the state's request to halt the implementation of New York City's congestion pricing policy.
The ruling allows the plan to begin as planned on Sunday, according to the report Fox 5.
New Jersey leaders who filed a lawsuit against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority say the agency's environmental studies were inadequate.
Judge Leo Gordon previously said regulators must clarify how much money New Jersey residents will receive to offset the potential pollution impacts of congestion pricing. However, he did not say when the payments would start working.
FEDERAL RULES ON NYC CONGESTION PRICING; DIFFERENT INTERPRETATION BETWEEN PARTIES
A federal judge in Newark, New Jersey, has denied the state's request to halt implementation of New York City's controversial congestion pricing policy. (Getty Images)
Gordon said at his sentencing Friday that there was no reason to delay the payment.
Randy Mastro, New Jersey's state attorney general, said he intends to file an appeal to block the introduction of congestion pricing.
MTA Chairman Janno Lieber praised the decision, noting the potential benefits of congestion pricing.
NYPD ARRESTS FOR VIOLATION OF POSTAL LABOR LAW.
The ruling allows the plan to begin as planned on Sunday. (Getty Images)
“We've been studying this issue for five years, but it only takes five minutes in downtown Manhattan to see that New York has a real traffic problem,” Lieber said at a news conference. “I realize that there has been a lot of controversy about this program and there are many people who are concerned about the impact of congestion pricing. To them, I want to say that the issue is to make the city better for everyone.”
Congestion pricing is expected to generate billions in revenue for renovations New York transit infrastructure, but has faced criticism from New Jersey officials and commuters who say it places an undue burden on people driving outside of New York.
MTA Chairman Janno Lieber praised the decision, noting the potential benefits of congestion pricing. (Getty Images)
Some riders may face daily fees of up to $22, which will include existing fees. Port Authority Areas.
President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly said he plans to veto the plan after he takes office later this month.