Overview
- The mayor called the proposal a "congestion pricing tax scheme" and a bad idea, arguing the study relies on pre‑COVID traffic assumptions she deems deeply flawed.
- The plan under discussion would charge drivers $10 to enter downtown during weekday peak periods and $5 on weekends, drawing frequent comparisons to New York City’s $9 toll window.
- Bowser cautioned that Washington’s density, building-height limits and telework patterns make it unlike Manhattan and warned a new fee could deter visitors and tenants.
- Commissioned in 2019 and completed in 2021, the nearly half‑million‑dollar study was released this week with the mayor’s sign‑off, which she stressed does not signal support for a congestion tax.
- Councilwoman and mayoral candidate Janeese Lewis George voiced support, citing potential gains for air quality and transit, while no legislative action has been finalized and drivers are not being charged.