New Jersey, New York Reach ‘Conceptual Understanding' on Congestion Pricing for Garden State Commuters, Murphy Says

New Jersey Gov. Murphy said he along with New York Gov. Cuomo “came to a conceptual understanding” that, should congestion pricing move forward, would be fairer to New Jersey commuters.

Murphy said Wednesday the understanding is that New Jersey commuters will be treated equally at all Hudson River crossings: Holland Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel and George Washington Bridge.

“New Jersey will also have a seat at the table as the plan moves forward,” Murphy said.

“As we ensure the equal treatment for our commuters, we will pursue the conversion, and this important, to cashless tolling at Port Authority-controlled crossings,” Murphy added. “This will not only make delivering the credits to New Jersey drivers possible, but will also relieve congestion at the toll plazas, especially at the George Washington Bridge.”

The news comes after two New Jersey congressmen proposed legislation last week to protect New Jersey motorists who already pay up to $15 for bridge or tunnel tolls.

However, the MTA says not so fast. 

"With all due respect to Governor Murphy, we have no idea what he is talking about. No agreement has been reached with New Jersey or anyone else on credits," MTA Chairman and CEO Patrick Foye said in a statement.

A spoksperson for Murphy fire back with a statement of their own. 

“With all due respect to Mr. Foye, Governor Murphy has had positive discussions with Governor Cuomo on congestion pricing and Governor Murphy’s remarks from earlier today reflect those conversations,” the statement read, 

One provision would deny federal transportation funding to New York if New Jersey commuters who pay bridge or tunnel tolls aren't exempted from the new fee. 

Details on New York’s fee plan are being finalized. It won't go into effect until 2021 and will be used to fix the city's mass transit system.