The start of the workweek meant the first weekday trip for many Connecticut drivers into Manhattan after congestion pricing began.

The MTA says about 3,100 cars from Connecticut enter the congestion pricing zone every day.

"It's really bad for everybody. I'm so sorry. It's no good," said one driver News 12 spoke to.

Congestion pricing was introduced in New York City Sunday after a late attempt by officials in New Jersey to stop it in court failed.

"I think it’s going to effect a lot of people. I don't see myself going back to NY ever again but in that certain situation it is bad. I think the people of NY there should be a massive protest. Actually I don't know why the people aren't protesting but it is really back in my opinion," said Luis Hernandez from Bridgeport.

Many drivers will be charged $9 during peak hours to enter Manhattan between 60th Street and the Battery covering busy areas including the theater district, Times Square, Hell's Kitchen, Chelsea and SoHo.

It's intended to bring some relief. New York had the worst traffic in the world in 2023. This new charge is the first of its kind in America.

"This is a terrible idea in my opinion but I feel like we're going to be able to use public transportation a lot more subways things of that nature but it’s going to be over congested so I don't know how I feel about it right now," said Dajon Hall from Bridgeport.

State Senate Republicans Ryan Fazio and Stephen Harding reacting saying in a statement:

"This toll will have a significant financial impact on the thousands of Connecticut residents who commute on a regular basis to Manhattan. It will also harm the greater New York area's entire economy, which is already overburdened by excessive taxes and fees."

That is on top of the fact that New York continues to unfairly tax Connecticut residents working from home.

Officials say congestion pricing will ease gridlock, improve air quality and help raise $15 billion for upgrades to New York's problematic transit system.

London, Singapore and Stockholm are doing this. Officials there say it is reducing traffic and promoting alternative modes of transportation.

President-elect Donald Trump says he's going to fight congestion pricing.

The MTA approved several exemptions including for low-income drivers, emergency and government vehicles as well as school and commuter buses.

Ride share options including taxis will not be charged the toll but instead will pass a fee onto passengers.

Fore more information visit, https://congestionreliefzone.mta.info/.