NYC Firefighter Unions Warn Congestion Toll Could Endanger Lives

Firefighter unions in New York City are raising alarms about the city’s new congestion toll, which they argue could delay emergency responses. The toll charges $9 during peak hours for vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street, with fees set to rise in the coming years.

Union officials contend that many firefighters depend on personal vehicles for commuting and operational needs, such as moving equipment or filling station shortages. They warn that the toll could force responders to rely on public transit, leading to slower response times in critical situations.

Andrew Ansbro, president of the Uniformed Firefighters Association, explained that personal vehicles are often used to address staffing shortages and transport essential gear. The unions say this occurs around 200 times daily across the city, highlighting the importance of exemptions.

Without relief from the toll, unions estimate it could cost taxpayers millions in overtime pay. They also caution that drivers avoiding the toll could create traffic bottlenecks in areas surrounding the zone, further impacting response times.

Mayor Eric Adams’ office addressed the unions’ concerns, assuring that emergency response capabilities would not be affected by the toll policy. The unions, however, remain skeptical, describing the measure as an unnecessary burden on first responders.

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