PENNSYLVANIA, USA — Every day, thousands of people from the Poconos travel on Interstate 80 to get to work in New York City. Starting this summer, that drive is going to cost more.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority approved a new congestion pricing and toll plan this week. Drivers will soon pay a $15 fee to get into mid-town Manhattan.
"What they are charging for these tolls, I don't see how families are going to afford it. Working-class people are getting it," said Rose Marie Carcione.
MTA officials say it's a way to ease congestion during peak travel times. New York is the first city in the country to roll out this type of toll.
Carcione says her son drives to the city every day for work.
"You have to pay to use the tunnels and the bridges to get into the city, which are extremely expensive, and you're going both ways each day at least five times a week. And now inter city you are going to get charged not only to park, but to drive through the streets, it's ridiculous," said Carcione.
Shawn Smith from Mount Pocono says he carpools to the city for his job.
"I think it's another way to bring money into the city. Everybody loves New York, and I don't see it slowing down," said Smith.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority says money from commuters will help upgrade the city's public transit system, which people say needs a lot of work.
"It's actually a good idea to help rebuild infrastructure that's deteriorating because some of those A trains, the people know, it's really not good. It's not safe," said Smith.
Officials in New York hope the tolls encourage some to take other modes of transportation, like trains or buses. People we spoke with say not everyone can switch their routine.
"There's no way; it's not just one commute. He can't take the train. What is he going to do when he gets out of the train? Where is he going? He needs his vehicle," added Carcione.
The new toll is expected to go into effect in June. Tolls will vary for trucks and motorcycles.