New York City is the most transit- and pedestrian-friendly city in the United States. These attributes are a large part of what makes New York function. Use of transit reduces greenhouse gas emissions, controls traffic congestion and contributes significantly to the economic viability of the region. Unfortunately, many communities throughout the city are poorly served by the existing transit system. That system is also facing significant financial hurdles, making its expansion questionable. It is imperative that local policymakers take the lead in developing new methods of expanding the capacity of our transit system that do not require the tremendous capital outlays of subway expansions while also supporting efforts to improve the financial condition of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, including increasing the city’s contribution to the MTA’s budget.

• Launch an initiative to identify city-owned properties that can be used as “park and ride” lots near transit stations in poorly served communities, particularly in South Brooklyn, Eastern Queens, Staten Island and parts of the Bronx.
• Require private ferries that run on diesel fuel to use ultra low sulfur diesel fuel and the best available technology to limit harmful emissions.
• Commit to making New York a bikeable city by passing Int. No. 38, which would require commercial buildings to allow bike access.
• Pass legislation to increase the fine for parking in a bike lane.

• Require the city to conduct a comprehensive study of parking spaces in communities currently experiencing rapid growth and development.
• Amend the city’s Zoning Resolutions to limit the amount of on- and offstreet parking that can be created in new developments located within a certain distance of major transit hubs.

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