Boston Considering “Congestion Fee” to Reduce Traffic, Imagine Having to Pay $15 Daily to Go to Work
Driving into work is already stressful. The amount of traffic that Bostonians face on a daily basis is mind-boggling.
Boston consistently ranks among the top 10 cities in the country for the worst traffic. Now, imagine each one of those commuters having to pay a daily fee just to drive to work. The fee would be implemented in areas that are considered the busiest in the city. The idea is currently being considered thanks to City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson.
“Boston is a popular tourist destination, a city where many people who live outside of it drive into it for work,” she said at the meeting.
“The vast numbers of vehicles entering our city can also negatively impact the quality of life of our residents.”
As you can expect, an idea like this is not going over well with commuters. MassGOP Chairperson Amy Carnevale says the measure is unfair for those who can’t work from home. Many drive into Boston hospitals for cancer treatments which will put an even bigger strain on them.
Boston Congestion Fee Could Be Like New York City
A fee has already been approved in New York City. It hasn’t been implemented, but they’re suggesting a $15 daily fee, which would go directly to improve public transit.
A hearing will be held at a later date to determine if that fee will work here in Boston.