Council Member Robert Jackson Leaning Toward “Yes” Vote

At a Community Board 12 meeting in Northern Manhattan last night, City Council Member Robert Jackson said he would "probably" vote in favor of the current congestion pricing plan.

While he has concerns about traffic on the George Washington Bridge and capacity on the A and 1 subway lines (increased service on the 1 is one of the planned benefits of pricing revenues), Jackson said "we can not afford to lose" the $354 million in transit funds pledged by the federal government. The recently unveiled Residential Parking Permit program has eased his worries about park and ride problems developing in his district, he said.

"If I had to vote right now," said Jackson, "I would probably vote 'yes.'"

Jackson said there are conflicting reports on which way the council is leaning, though in his opinion "It doesn't look too good."