Two weeks ago, the same governor who wrangled marriage equality through Albany told a Syracuse-based radio station that he is "dubious" about the political prospects of Move NY. "The outer boroughs were very opposed to this plan last time," Cuomo said. "I don't think there's been a change of heart."
In fact, the Q Poll reveals the absence of stiff opposition to Move NY in every borough. In Staten Island, there's even a 61 percent majority in favor of the plan. Only in Brooklyn does opposition to the plan exceed support by more than 10 points, 52 to 41 percent.
These are numbers that a politician who wants to take on the big, systemic problems plaguing NYC's streets and transportation system could work with, especially since we know that public opinion of road pricing improves after implementation. Sure, getting New York's state legislators in line won't be automatic. But let's not pretend the greatest political obstacle to road pricing is the "outer boroughs" when it's Cuomo himself.
Ben Fried started as a Streetsblog reporter in 2008 and led the site as editor-in-chief from 2010 to 2018. He lives in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn, with his wife.
New York City's congestion pricing tolls are one historic step closer to reality after Wednesday's 11-1 MTA board vote. Next step: all those pesky lawsuits.