Lyft to Credit NYC Riders Congestion Fee in January

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New York City’s Congestion Pricing Takes Effect on January 5th: Lyft Offers Credits to Riders in January

January 4, 2025, marked the date when New York City’s congestion pricing program was scheduled to take effect. However, for riders who pay the fee during the first month of its implementation, Lyft has announced that it will be crediting them for their expenses.

Background on Congestion Pricing

New York City’s congestion pricing program aims to reduce traffic in lower Manhattan while generating revenue for mass transit. Initially paused by Governor Kathy Hochul in June due to concerns over cost and equity, the program was reinstated at a reduced price. The program charges different fees for various vehicles during different times of the day.

Lyft’s Credit Offer

According to Lyft, passengers who pay the congestion fee will receive credits that can be spent on Lyft or Citi Bike services in the following week. While riders will still be charged the congestion fee, the credit offer is described as "a small gesture to help people adjust to another new expense" by the company.

Additional Fees

Lyft passengers should note that they will also incur an existing $2.75 congestion fee for rides that begin, end, or pass through Manhattan below 96th Street. This additional fee comes on top of the regular congestion pricing fee.

Understanding Congestion Pricing Fees

Daytime Hours: For driving a regular car in Manhattan below 60th Street during daytime hours (excluding peak hours), the congestion pricing fee will be $9.
Peak Hours: During peak hours, which are defined as Monday to Friday from 7 am to 7 pm and Saturday from 12 pm to 6 pm, the congestion pricing fee for driving a regular car in Manhattan below 60th Street will be higher.
Ride-hailing Services: For ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft, the congestion pricing fee is $1.50 per ride.

Conclusion

As New York City’s congestion pricing program takes effect on January 5th, Lyft has announced that it will provide credits to riders who pay the congestion fee during the first month of its implementation. This move is seen as a gesture by the company to help passengers adjust to another new expense while working towards reducing the overall cost of rides.