Imagine this: you own a cozy diner in NYC, and the governor keeps dropping by, chatting with your patrons. That was the case for Tarek Soliman, owner of The Comfort Diner, before Governor Kathy Hochul's 2022 gubernatorial race. But things changed after her election. Soliman hasn't seen Hochul since, and he's worried her $9 congestion toll plan could hurt his business.
This toll, covering Manhattan below 60th Street, aims to reduce traffic. However, Soliman fears it will discourage customers from the outer boroughs and New Jersey. "It's going to affect the business for sure, " he said. "How much money do people have to pay to come here and eat? "
At a press conference, Hochul claimed she talks to average people at diners who support the fee. But Soliman's not convinced. He remembers when Hochul used to visit often, but now, not so much. "After the election, she doesn’t come, " he said. "She must have changed. "
Other restaurant workers and customers aren't fans of the toll either. Eddie Prekpalj, 21, commutes daily from the Bronx to Manhattan. "That’s insane. Horrible, " he said, feeling the government is overreaching.
Hochul, however, remains confident. She mentioned diners three times at the press conference, emphasizing her connection with the people. But Soliman's perspective offers a different view, highlighting the potential impact of the toll on small businesses.
