FDNY Firefighter's Skateboard Commute Goes Viral Amid Congestion Pricing

NEW YORK – A video of FDNY firefighter James Sicilian skateboarding to work on the Upper West Side has sparked widespread attention on social media, with many voicing frustration over New York City’s new congestion pricing fees. The video, posted on January 7, shows Sicilian, a 25-year veteran of the department and Ladder 2 captain, skating down West 110th Street near Morningside Drive, fully outfitted in his fire gear, including gloves, a fire helmet, and a backpack.



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Despite the social media uproar, the video also serves as a reminder of the diverse ways people navigate the city. For Sicilian, the skateboard offers a practical, fast, and affordable way to get to work—especially as congestion pricing begins to affect many commuters. His viral ride highlights the broader challenges facing workers in a city where costs continue to rise, particularly for those in essential roles like fire services, who often put their lives on the line to keep the public safe.
“If they could figure out how to put a toll on that, they would do it too,” one commenter joked, referring to the skateboard. Others were more direct, calling for better treatment of first responders: “Get this guy a free ride now,” and “First responders should go through tolls for free,” posted other users.
The caption accompanying the video, shared by Instagram user @stretch_mbh, read, “This s–t is getting outta hand … the people that help save lives have to do this because of tolls.” The video quickly gained traction, with over 300,000 views. Popular accounts such as New Yorkers and NYC Fire Wire reposted it, sparking discussions about the burden of tolls on city workers and first responders. Many commenters expressed support for Sicilian and other emergency personnel, arguing that they should be exempt from paying the congestion pricing fee.