Congressman Kean Challenges Secretary Buttigieg on Critical Transportation Issues

Contact: Dan Scharfenberger

(September 20, 2023) Washington, DC -  Today Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. questioned United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg on critical transportation issues for New Jersey during a hearing of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee.

One of the issues discussed during the hearing with Secretary Buttigieg was Congestion Pricing which many New Jersey residents have expressed serious concerns over given its potential impact on affordability. Congressman Kean, a staunch opponent of NYC’s Congestion Pricing proposal, posed tough questions to Secretary Buttigieg about the potential consequences of Congestion Pricing on New Jersey commuters and businesses. Kean emphasized his belief that any proposal for Congestion Pricing must be thoroughly examined to ensure that it does not disproportionately burden hardworking families and individuals in his district. Earlier this year he joined the bipartisan, bi-state ‘Anti-Congestion Tax Caucus’ and introduced a bipartisan resolution opposing NY's Congestion Pricing cash grab. 

Additionally, Congressman Kean pressed Secretary Buttigieg on the long-standing need for a One-Seat-Ride on NJ Transit's Raritan Valley Line. This service enhancement has been a priority for Congressman Kean and is a critical issue for New Jerseyans. Kean reiterated his strong support for the One-Seat-Ride initiative - legislation that he is leading in Congress that passed the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee earlier this year - stressing its importance in improving the quality of life for his constituents and enhancing connectivity in the region.

You can view the exchange on Congestion Pricing HERE.

 You can view the exchange on One-Seat-Ride HERE.

Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. is serving his first term in the US House representing the 7th District of New Jersey.  The district is comprised of parts of Union, Somerset, Morris, and Sussex Counties, and all of Hunterdon and Warren Counties. Kean is a member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee.