The debate over tolls in Toronto resurfaces as cities like New York see success in reducing traffic
New York’s Central Business District Tolling Program started this month. Drivers entering Manhattan’s southern area during peak hours now pay a fee. It’s already showing results, with traffic dropping significantly.
Cities like London and Stockholm have seen similar success with their tolls. But experts warn that implementing something like this in Toronto could be tricky.
Matti Siemiatycki from the University of Toronto points out that the many streets leading into downtown could complicate things. Plus, there’s the question of whether local politicians are on board with the idea.
Recently, Toronto’s City Council looked at its long-term financial plan and decided against recommending tolls. Mayor Olivia Chow mentioned that while the city can’t impose tolls alone, she’s not completely dismissing the idea for the future.
However, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation has made it clear that they won’t be adding any tolls or taxes to roads. They’re focused on building infrastructure instead.
Still, experts argue that congestion is costing us in other ways. A study found that traffic jams in the Greater Toronto Area could cost over $10 billion in lost opportunities this year.
Paul Smetanin from the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis emphasizes that the impact on quality of life is even greater than the economic costs. He supports congestion pricing but insists it should be transparent.
This isn’t the first time tolls have been discussed. Back in 2016, former mayor John Tory proposed a $2 toll on major highways, but the idea was shot down by the government.
