Uber ads back congestion fee

ALBANY — Ride-sharing service Uber is launching a TV ad campaign in New York City next week to support the state enacting a congestion-pricing plan to help raise funds for the cash-strapped subway system.

The six-figure ad buy, which will kick off Tuesday on city cable stations, is the start of a “comprehensive” campaign to create a congestion-pricing plan that would charge more to enter into busy parts of Manhattan, an Uber official said.

“Everyone — whether using a personal vehicle, delivery truck, taxi or Uber — should pay their fair share to keep New York City moving forward,” Uber’s Alix Anfang said.

The ad will highlight headlines detailing the “congestion nightmare” on city streets as well as the subway crisis.

“Above ground: Congestion,” the ad says. “Below ground: A mess. Congestion pricing can fix both.”

Critics note it would also benefit Uber if more people decide to split the congestion fee by hiring a ride-sharing service.

Gov. Cuomo has said he will introduce some type of congestionpricing plan as part of his state budget proposal in January to help raise needed revenue for the MTA.