Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge Toll 2025: Congestion Pricing Impact Complete Guide
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Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge Complete Guide
System: NYC Congestion Pricing (since January 2025)
Coverage: Manhattan entry south of 60th Street (specific conditions apply)
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Technology: Electronic toll collection via overhead gantries
Operators: MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority)
Do I Need to Pay Tolls for Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge? 2025 Update
Yes and no - it depends on your route and direction. The Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge itself remains toll-free, but NYC's congestion pricing system charges drivers entering Manhattan south of 60th Street, which affects some bridge routes.
Key Reality: The bridge was toll-free from 1909-2025, but congestion pricing now charges $9 during peak hours for certain bridge movements. There's no way to avoid the toll when traveling from Manhattan to Queens on either level.
2025 Update: Congestion pricing launched January 5, 2025, after legal challenges. The system remains active despite ongoing federal litigation, creating NYC's first-ever toll charges for this historic bridge.
Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge Toll Costs: What You Actually Pay
Congestion pricing charges apply based on your route and timing, not the bridge crossing itself.
Current Toll Rates by Direction (2025)
| Direction & Route | Peak Hours | Off-Peak Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Queens to Manhattan (Upper Level to 62nd St) | $0.00 | $0.00 | Exits north of congestion zone |
| Queens to Manhattan (Lower Level) | $9.00 | $2.25 | Exits onto 60th Street |
| Manhattan to Queens (Both Levels) | $9.00 | $2.25 | No way to avoid toll |
| Trucks (3+ axles) | $21.60 | $5.40 | When entering congestion zone |
| Motorcycles | $4.50 | $1.13 | When entering congestion zone |
Peak Hours Definition (2025)
Weekdays: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Peak) | 9:00 PM - 5:00 AM (Off-Peak)
Weekends: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Peak) | 9:00 PM - 9:00 AM (Off-Peak)
How to Pay Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge Congestion Pricing
You can use the following methods to pay congestion pricing tolls:
1. E-ZPass Electronic System:
- E-ZPass transponder: Automatic deduction from prepaid account
- Same device works for all NYC area toll facilities
- Charges posted to monthly statement
2. Tolls by Mail:
- License plate photo billing system
- 50% higher rates than E-ZPass
- Bills sent to registered vehicle owner
To calculate toll costs for cars, trucks, motorcycles and all vehicle types across NYC congestion pricing areas, use TollGuru NYC toll calculator
Recent Changes (2025)
Congestion Pricing Launch:
- January 5, 2025: First-ever tolls implemented on Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge
- Rates reduced from originally planned $15 to $9 peak/$2.25 off-peak
- Overhead gantries installed to detect vehicles entering congestion zone
Legal and Political Developments:
- Federal court challenges ongoing from New Jersey and other states
- Trump administration attempting to halt program
- System remains operational despite political opposition
Bridge Infrastructure:
- Upper deck replacement project ongoing (Contract No. 10)
- Daily traffic: 129,874 vehicles, 7,568 cyclists, 2,785 pedestrians
- Busiest NYC DOT-operated bridge in the city
NYC Bridge/Tunnel Toll Information
NYC DOT Bridges - Congestion Pricing Impact:
- Brooklyn Bridge - Congestion pricing tolls apply for Manhattan entry
- Manhattan Bridge - Subject to congestion pricing charges
- Williamsburg Bridge - Congestion pricing tolls when entering Manhattan
- Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge - Partial congestion pricing (route-dependent)
MTA/Port Authority Bridges - Always Tolled:
- RFK Triborough Bridge - Regular bridge tolls plus congestion pricing
- Bronx-Whitestone Bridge - Bridge tolls only (north of congestion zone)
- Henry Hudson Bridge - Bridge tolls only (north of congestion zone)
Planning Your Journey
Cost Considerations:
- Daily tolls: $9 peak/$2.25 off-peak if entering congestion zone
- One charge per day maximum (no multiple charges for re-entry)
- Low-income discount: 50% off after 10 trips per month (under $50k income)
Route Planning:
- Queens to Manhattan: Use upper level exiting to 62nd Street to avoid toll
- Manhattan to Queens: No route avoids congestion pricing charge
- Alternative bridges: All other East River bridges subject to congestion pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I avoid Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge tolls completely?
Partially. Queens to Manhattan via upper level to 62nd Street is toll-free, but Manhattan to Queens has no toll-free route. All other East River bridges charge congestion pricing.
What happens if I don't pay the congestion pricing toll?
Unpaid tolls result in violations and penalties. The MTA sends bills to registered vehicle owners, with additional fees for non-payment.
Do motorcycles pay tolls on Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge?
Yes, motorcycles pay reduced congestion pricing rates ($4.50 peak/$1.13 off-peak) when entering the congestion zone via the bridge.
Is the bridge itself still toll-free?
Yes, the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge crossing itself remains toll-free. The charges are for entering Manhattan's congestion relief zone south of 60th Street.
Do tourists get different rates?
No, tourists pay the same congestion pricing rates. Rental car companies may charge administrative fees on top of the tolls.
Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge vs. Other NYC Bridges
| Bridge | Bridge Toll | Congestion Pricing | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge | $0.00 | $9.00/$2.25 | $0-9 (route dependent) |
| Brooklyn Bridge | $0.00 | $9.00/$2.25 | $9/$2.25 |
| Manhattan Bridge | $0.00 | $9.00/$2.25 | $9/$2.25 |
| Williamsburg Bridge | $0.00 | $9.00/$2.25 | $9/$2.25 |
Useful Links & Resources
Internal Navigation:
- Brooklyn Bridge - Historic East River crossing with congestion pricing
- Manhattan Bridge - Double-deck bridge with congestion pricing tolls
- Williamsburg Bridge - Steel suspension bridge with congestion pricing
- Throgs Neck Bridge - Bronx to Queens connection with regular tolls
- NYC Bridges & Tunnels - Complete guide to metropolitan area crossings
Official Resources:
- MTA Congestion Relief Zone: Official toll information and updates
- NYC DOT Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge: Construction updates and traffic info
- E-ZPass NY: Account management and payment options
