Queens Tribune

It’s very possible that congestion pricing could go down in fiery flames in the State Legislature.

This is not because it’s the will of the people or that it’s a bad idea – it just might be difficult enticing the Assembly.

After passing the City Council, in which the Queens delegation split 5 for and 9 against, the controversial bill is headed to Albany where it will surely be further scrutinized by New York City representatives, currently busy with the dubious budget (another topic altogether).
But once again, the City must look north for approval, which time and again seems to be granted through a process of political favors, agreements and threats more than a simple hand count.

As far as this paper is concerned, congestion pricing is worth a shot under the conditions that the money goes strictly toward transportation, it’s traceable by the public and Eastern Queens receives its additional buses the proposal promises.

Most of the Queens delegation in the Assembly will probably not vote in for the proposal however, Speaker Sheldon Silver could have an easy majority with a couple winks around the State House.

While the Governor and Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno support the measure, Silver (the final third) needs to agree or the proposal will crash and burn in Albany.