Join the Movement: New Coalition Aims to Transform Policies for Essential Food Businesses and Organizations

New York City’s congestion pricing program has sparked the creation of the NYC Food Distribution Alliance. This group includes over 200 food businesses, such as Chefs’ Warehouse and Food Bank For NYC. They’re coming together to highlight the challenges this pricing scheme poses for the city’s food supply chain.

The alliance points out that congestion pricing could raise food costs for consumers and those who rely on hunger relief organizations. They are calling for exceptions that would protect essential food distributors operating in the five boroughs. Without these exemptions, they warn that access to affordable food in New York City could be at risk.

Colin O’Neil, director of the Alliance, emphasizes the importance of food distribution as essential infrastructure. He argues that food access in New York should not be compromised, especially as many people already struggle with high living costs.

Distributors are already feeling the financial strain. Some members project added costs of $300,000 or more each year to keep delivering fresh food into Manhattan. This is in addition to the significant contributions they already make to support public transit through the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation Mobility Tax (MCTMT).

Hunger relief organizations like Food Bank For NYC are also worried. They fear that rising delivery costs could lead to losing up to 90,000 meals a year for families in need, directly impacting low-income communities.

Leslie Gordon, president and CEO of Food Bank For NYC, highlights that every dollar saved in operations can be redirected to feeding more people. She hopes city leaders will recognize the challenges nonprofits face and collaborate on solutions to maintain their services.

Beyond financial implications, higher food prices could worsen public health issues. New York has made strides in promoting healthier eating, but increased costs could undermine these efforts.

Chef Tom Colicchio reinforces that restaurants, food banks, and other essential services rely on timely deliveries. He supports reducing traffic congestion but insists that it shouldn’t negatively impact the city’s food services.

In response, the NYC Food Distribution Alliance is urging Governor Kathy Hochul, the MTA, and lawmakers to establish exemptions for food distributors already making contributions to the transportation system.

Andrew Rigie, from the New York City Hospitality Alliance, agrees. He points out that many essential deliveries cannot be made using public transport, meaning those costs will inevitably be passed on to consumers.

The Alliance is taking steps to mobilize support from New Yorkers, encouraging them to reach out to their elected officials. They hope to prevent rising food prices that could hit many households hard.

In summary, the NYC Food Distribution Alliance is advocating for adjustments to the congestion pricing policy to safeguard food access and affordability in New York City.