US Gives Big Jump to NYC Traffic Plan

The federal government has promised to pitch in $354M toward an environmentally sensitive plan to suppress car traffic in Manhattan, New York's busiest borough. But the scheme's chief proponent, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, must still win the approval of the New York state legislature, which initially chafed at his proposal, the Times reports.

Bloomberg wants drivers to pay heavy tolls to enter or leave the borough during peak traffic hours. According to terms announced by Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters, the city will receive $1.6M initially. But to get the remainder of the funds, the legislature has to sign off on the toll system by the end of next March. (More New York City stories.)