Congestion pricing will start in New York City in January with a $9 toll, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday.  Hochul wants to restart the program at a reduced rate, which is why it's being lowered from $15 for most daytime trips into Manhattan's Congestion Relief Zone.

Gov. Kathy Hochul is doubling down on congestion pricing, aiming to launch the controversial tolling program by January. Hochul says the plan will encourage subway use and help fund the MTA’s $15 billion upgrades, despite critics calling it a financial burden on drivers.

Hochul has been under pressure from transit advocates, environmental groups and supportive lawmakers to revive the toll since she spiked it in June.