Impact of Congestion Pricing on PM 2.5

This study utilized two devices to monitor PM2.5 levels near LaGuardia Community College in an area influenced by traffic from the nearby Queensboro Bridge. MTA data showed that the number of vehicles using the Queensboro Bridge decreased during the PM rush hour following the introduction of congestion pricing (CP). The data from the devices was downloaded and analyzed. Data from December to March was collected and analyzed , both before and after CP went into effect. To assess changes in air quality, PM2.5 data recorded at 10-minute intervals during the afternoon commute across four selected Wednesdays was compared. Our findings suggest that congestion pricing may influence air quality in urban areas. These results highlight the importance of ongoing air quality monitoring in high-traffic areas and support the need for policies that reduce vehicle emissions in densely populated communities. By closely examining the relationship between traffic patterns and air pollution, this study adds to growing evidence that transportation policies like congestion pricing can play a key role in creating healthier, more sustainable urban environments.