New York City's controversial congestion pricing plan is set to launch as scheduled after a federal judge in Newark, New Jersey, dismissed the state's attempt to halt its implementation. The decision, announced on Friday, paves the way for the plan to commence on Sunday, despite ongoing legal challenges and criticism from New Jersey officials.

New Jersey leaders had argued that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA) environmental impact studies were inadequate and filed a lawsuit seeking to block the plan. Judge Leo Gordon, while previously requiring regulators to clarify the financial allocation to New Jersey communities for mitigating potential pollution effects, had not explicitly ruled on whether the tolls could proceed. Friday's ruling removes the final legal hurdle for the plan's implementation.

Randy Mastro, representing New Jersey, has indicated his intention to appeal the decision. Meanwhile, MTA Chair Janno Lieber applauded the ruling, emphasizing the pressing need to address New York City's traffic congestion and highlighting the potential benefits of the plan. Lieber acknowledged the existing controversy surrounding the program and sought to reassure concerned parties that the ultimate goal is to enhance the city's overall quality of life.

The congestion pricing initiative is projected to generate substantial revenue, which will be used to modernize New York's aging transit infrastructure. However, it has drawn criticism from New Jersey officials and commuters who argue that it disproportionately burdens those traveling into the city from outside its boundaries. Some commuters could face daily charges of up to $22, inclusive of existing tolls for Port Authority crossings.