New York will charge a $15 toll for driving through Manhattan

Anyone who wants to drive through the south of the Manhattan district in New York will soon have to pay a 15 dollar (14 euro) toll. With this measure, the city council wants to prevent the enormous crowds.

It was already known that the toll would be introduced, but now the starting date has also been decided. Starting June 30, all drivers will pay a fee to drive in the area south of 60th Street. This is in addition to the tolls already charged on bridges and tunnels leading to Manhattan Island.

The levy will apply to virtually the entire area on the south side of Central Park. All the major attractions, such as the Empire State Building, Times Square and the 9/11 memorial, are in that zone.

Different rates

Larger vehicles pay more than the standard rate of $15. For example, buses with tourists have to pay 36 dollars (approximately 34 euros) to drive there. Motorcyclists actually pay less, and there is also a lower rate at night. Taxi passengers pay a surcharge on top of the fare.

People with a low income can apply for a discount. Emergency vehicles, school buses, and transport for the disabled do not have to pay tolls.

The measure should generate 1 billion dollars per year for the city of New York. This will be invested in public transport.