New York City's congestion pricing went into effect in the center of Manhattan on Sunday, one day after a federal judge rejected a request from New Jersey officials to halt the program. Why it matters: The Metropolitan Transportation Authority says the first road toll policy of its kind in the U.

New York’s new toll for drivers entering the center of Manhattan began on Sunday, meaning many people will pay $9 to access the busiest part of the Big Apple during peak hours.

MTA Chairperson Janno Lieber took to the airwaves to defend congestion pricing from what he called “grievance politics” Tuesday, ahead of the second rush hour under the controversial