In a surprise move, the US Department of Transportation has withdrawn its approval for New York City’s congestion pricing plan, effectively canceling the proposed toll. The plan, which was set to go into effect in 2023, aimed to reduce traffic congestion in Manhattan by charging drivers a fee to enter certain areas of the city during peak hours.

The decision, made by the Trump Administration, has left city officials and residents stunned. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) had been working on the plan for years, and it was expected to generate billions of dollars in revenue for the city’s public transportation system.

The congestion pricing plan was designed to address the city’s notorious traffic congestion, which costs the city an estimated $20 billion annually in lost productivity and revenue. By charging drivers a toll to enter certain areas of Manhattan, the plan aimed to reduce the number of cars on the road and encourage the use of public transportation, walking, and cycling.

The plan had its detractors, however, with some arguing that it would disproportionately affect low-income residents and commuters from outer boroughs. Staten Island, in particular, was expected to be heavily impacted, with many residents relying on cars to commute to work in Manhattan.

The withdrawal of federal approval has left the future of the congestion pricing plan uncertain. City officials have vowed to continue fighting for the plan, but it remains to be seen whether they will be able to overcome the latest hurdle.

In the meantime, residents and commuters are left to wonder what the future holds for New York City’s traffic-choked streets. Will the city find a way to revive the congestion pricing plan, or will it be forced to explore alternative solutions to address its traffic woes? Only time will tell.