By Joe Anuta
Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced Thursday afternoon that the city has instituted gas rationing in the five boroughs, which will function on an odd-even schedule.
At 6 a.m. Friday morning, only cars whose license plates end in an odd number — with Friday having the odd-numbered date of Nov. 9 — will be able to fill up at the pumps.
“This is something that is practical, enforceable and understandable,” Bloomberg said at a news conference.
The mayor had no projection as to how long the rationing system would last, but gave a rough estimate of it being in place until “some time next week.”
Bloomberg compared the rationing system to the same one instituted in New Jersey, adding that it appeared to reduce the average wait time for gas from 2 hours to 45 minutes.
Police will be stationed at gas stations to ensure that the city’s motorists abide by the rules.
Reach reporter Joe Anuta by e-mail at januta@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4566.
