Garden State Times

Senator Joe Pennacchio has criticized New Jersey's response to New York's congestion pricing plan. He expressed dissatisfaction with the additional fees imposed on commuters traveling between the states and urged New Jersey to take a proactive stance.

“While New York slaps Garden State commuters with additional fees simply for traveling to and from work, New Jersey should not sit idly by and watch commuters fall victim to the immense government greed that is taking money right out of their pockets,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “New Jersey’s response has been dismal at best and it’s time we fight back.”

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) board approved the congestion pricing plan on Monday, establishing a base toll of $9 through 2027. The revenue generated is intended to support New York City's public transit system.

Sen. Pennacchio proposed that New Jersey explore economic opportunities in response, such as developing a convention center in Meadowlands and introducing slot machine gambling at horse racetracks.

“What’s worse is that we are leaving billions of dollars on the table while being emasculated by New York. A convention center to compete with NY Javits Center and A Meadowlands racino are winners for New Jersey taxpayers so if New York wants to play that economic game, we have it in our power to play—and win.”

In February, he called for legislative action on his bill directing the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) to study the feasibility of a Meadowlands convention center project. He also renewed his advocacy for slot machine gambling at horse racetracks during the same period.