Visiting New York City? Prepare to pay more if you drive to busiest part of Manhattan as congestion pricing takes effect in NYC [Video]

NEW YORK — New York’s much-debated plan to charge drivers to enter the center of Manhattan took effect on Sunday, following years of bureaucratic and legal roadblocks.

The goals of what is known as “congestion pricing” are to reduce gridlock and pollution and raise revenue for public transit. Gov. Kathy Hochul said this week that the state will push forward with the plan.

Here are some things to know if you plan to come into Manhattan by car after Jan. 5:

Will I have to pay the toll?

The toll applies to the most congested part of Manhattan, south of Central Park. It will vary depending on the time and whether a car has E-ZPass, which is an electronic toll collection system used in many states.

During peak traffic hours — that’s 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends – most cars, SUVs, small vans and pickup trucks during with an E-ZPass will …