We’re Not Backing Down: Congestion pricing and bike lanes are here to stay
This week, Trump came out swinging against congestion pricing, bike lanes, and pedestrian space — all critical improvements transforming New York City into a cleaner, safer, and greener city. These changes are the result of years of tireless advocacy by people like you, and we’re not backing down.
Congestion pricing is delivering on its promise: faster commutes, safer streets, and a boost to local businesses in the congestion relief zone. It’s also popular — 66% of frequent drivers in the area are on board, and 60% of New Yorkers want it to stay. Even Trump’s former transportation advisor agrees it’s the right policy.
Despite all the success, Trump wants to bring back traffic — undoing years of progress and forcing New Yorkers back into gridlock. Reversing congestion pricing would mean longer, miserable commutes, dirtier and noisier neighborhoods, and more dangerous streets for everyone.
We can’t let that happen. Governor Hochul is standing strong for New Yorkers, and we need to let her know she has our support! Send a message to Governor Hochul today to thank her for her leadership and for standing firm for congestion pricing.
Stay tuned for next steps as we continue the fight for a cleaner, safer, and greener New York City.
Three Things to Know
Honoring the legacy of Donald Shoup, a champion for urban reform. Donald Shoup’s pioneering work, especially his groundbreaking book The High Cost of Free Parking, reshaped the way we think about parking, space utilization, and the future of urban planning. We were fortunate to have hosted Donald at last fall’s Vision Zero Cities conference, where his presence, kindness, and insightful vision sparked meaningful conversations. His research continues to inspire our collective efforts to build more equitable, sustainable, and thoughtful cities. Donald’s legacy lives on in the work we do every day to create vibrant, inclusive cities for everyone.
Third Avenue’s bike lane now features NYC’s longest “green wave.” Great news for cyclists: Third Avenue now has NYC's longest "green wave!” This system retimes traffic lights to help cyclists hit more green lights, making their ride smoother and safer. This green wave is a direct result of the hard work by our Manhattan Committee activists, who fought for this win and showed that the east side needs calmer streets, real bike lanes, and daylit intersections. But the work isn’t done yet — let’s keep pushing to extend the Green Wave all the way from Cooper Square to 128th Street!
In the news. Here’s what we’re reading this week.
Hear from our Executive Director, Ben Furnas about how congestion pricing is reshaping our streets and why the fight for safe streets and protected bike lanes is connected on CBS.
According to Newsday, ridership on the LIRR is up after one month of congestion pricing.
Lauren Pine, a member of Families for Safe Streets who lost her leg in a car crash, submitted testimony to the City Council in opposition to Intro 1050, which proposes reducing the minimum 'personal injury protection' insurance for TLC drivers from $200,000 to $50,000. Read her words about why this legislation would be a mistake in Streetsblog.
Two Things to Do
Experience the magic of a Miracle on 42nd Street: Campaign social & happy hour! Can you imagine a transformed 42nd Street with greener, faster commutes, more pedestrian space, and a vibrant public realm? It’s time for a Miracle on 42nd Street! Join us tomorrow, Thursday, February 13, at 6 p.m. for a campaign social hosted by TAMAC. Get the inside scoop on our exciting work ahead for 2025 and help fuel the momentum for Midtown’s green future. Stop by Reichenbach Hall for the Miracle Happy Hour to learn more about our campaign and find out how you can get involved.
Join us tomorrow for the debut of our Freedom of Movement Webinar Series. In our first webinar, we’ll discuss everything from pedestrian safety and greenways to bike infrastructure, e-bikes, and emerging vehicle tech. Plus, you’ll learn how you can be part of the movement for safer, more sustainable streets. Sign up now and tune in on Zoom at 6:30 p.m. tomorrow, February 13.
One Action to Take Now
Sign our petition to pass Intro 1138 & daylight every intersection in NYC. Our City Council has an opportunity to make our streets safer for everyone — especially our most vulnerable neighbors. Intro 1138, introduced by Council Member Julie Won, would daylight every intersection across the five boroughs. Daylighting is a powerful tool – but complemented with other safety infrastructure, it’s even more effective. Take Action: Contact your council member and ask them to support Intro 1138.
