Navigate NYC’s new Congestion Relief Zone starting Jan 2025. Get toll rates, exemption info & payment options for Manhattan’s traffic reduction initiative.

General Information

What is a Congestion Zone, Congestion Relief Zone or Low-Emission Zone? 

Congestion zones target traffic volume, low-emission zones focus on vehicle pollution, while NYC’s CRZ combines both approaches.

What exactly is a Low Emission Zone? 

A Low Emission Zone (LEZ) is a designated area in a city where certain vehicles are restricted based on their emissions. Think of it as a “clean air zone” where the most polluting vehicles either can’t enter or must pay a fee to enter. These zones help cities reduce air pollution and protect public health. For example, in London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone, older vehicles that don’t meet strict emission standards must pay a daily charge to drive in the zone.

What is the difference between a Congestion Zone and a Low Emission Zone? 

A Congestion Zone focuses on reducing traffic by charging all vehicles (or most vehicles) to enter busy city areas, regardless of their emission levels. A Low Emission Zone, on the other hand, specifically targets polluting vehicles. Some cities, like London, have both types of zones: you pay one fee for driving in a busy area (congestion charge) and potentially another fee if your vehicle is highly polluting (emission charge).

How can I integrate NYC’s Congestion Relief Zone boundaries into my application? 

GeoJunxion provides the NYC CRZ boundaries as standardized geofencing data as part of the GeoJunxion Eco Alert Zone database, available in multiple formats including GeoJSON and Shapefile. Our data package includes precise zone boundaries, entry/exit points, and relevant attributes for type of vehicles. The data can be easily integrated into mapping solutions, route planning algorithms, or fleet management systems. We provide comprehensive API documentation and integration guides to help you implement the solution quickly.

Where is the NYC Congestion Relief Zone located? 

The CRZ covers Manhattan south of and including 60th Street. All vehicles entering this zone starting January 5, 2025, will be subject to tolls.  Please consult the MTA website for the latest updates to the zone.

Eco Alert Zones by GeoJunxion

Map of Congestion Relief Zone derived from the GeoJunxion Zones Database.

 

Are any highways in NYC not impacted by congestion pricing?

The following routes are not included in the congestion pricing plan:

  • • FDR Drive through Manhattan
  • • Route 9A/West Side Highway through Manhattan
  • • Battery Park underpass that connects the FDR Drive with Route 9A
  • • Hugh L. Carey Tunnel connections to West Street

 

Pricing & Payment New York CRZ

What are the toll rates? 

  • • Peak periods: $9 with E-ZPass 
  • • Overnight: $2.25 with E-ZPass
  • • Without E-ZPass: Up to 50% higher rates via Tolls by Mail

Where can I check what I have to pay?

You can check this article and calculate the cost which applies to you.

How do I pay the toll? 

  • • Primary method: E-ZPass
  • • Alternative: Tolls by Mail (higher rates apply)
  • • Important: Ensure your E-ZPass account is linked to your current license plate

Exemptions & Discounts

Who qualifies for exemptions? 

  • • Low-income drivers
  • • Individuals with disabilities
  • • Organizations transporting people with disabilities
  • • Qualifying emergency vehicles
  • • Buses
  • • Specialized government-owned vehicles

How do I apply for an exemption? 

Visit the MTA website for:

  • • Eligibility requirements
  • • Required documentation
  • • Application process
  • • Submission instructions

Resident Information

Do residents within the CRZ need to pay? 

  • • Yes, residents must pay when entering the zone
  • • No charge for:
  •   – Days when vehicle remains parked
  •   – Trips made entirely within the CRZ

Are there special provisions for low-income residents? 

  • • Residents with NYS household adjusted gross income under $60,000 may qualify for tax credits
  • • Tax credits equal to the amount of tolls paid
  • • Details available on the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance website

Operational Questions

Will I be charged for brief zone entries? 

Yes, any vehicle entering the CRZ will be charged, regardless of distance traveled within the zone.

Additional Resources

Eco Alert Zones by GeoJunxion

Detailed image of part of the NYC zone, part of the Eco Alert Zones Database by GeoJunxion.

Last updated: 16 December 2024