Finding a solution to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's crippling budget problems will be a top priority for the 2009-10 session. We will also work on other bills that will encourage transit expansions that utilize less capital-intensive means, such as bus rapid transit and light rail.

Fully fund the MTA's capital and operating budgets: The MTA is the largest mass transit operator in the United States, with responsibility for the New York City transit system as well as the Long Island Rail Road, Metro-North and suburban bus systems. Unfortunately, the MTA faces significant budgetary hurdles.Its extensive and aging infrastructure is in critical need of capital improvements. Without greatly enhanced support from New York State, the MTA cannot hope to fulfill its capital plan.

NYLCVEF will urge the state to greatly increase direct support for the MTA. It is essential for the Legislature to act immediately to solve the MTA's looming financial crisis by not only fixing the agency's current financial troubles but also identifying long-range sustainable solutions that will provide stable financing for years to come.

We call on the state Legislature to act swiftly to enact the recommendations of the Commission on MTA Financing, including:

• Tolling the East and Harlem River bridges.
• Creating a regionwide mobility tax dedicated to funding the MTA.
• Establishing a Capital Financing Authority within the MTA to fund needed capital projects.

Invest in upstate transit infrastructure: NYLCVEF will advocate for an increase in state support for upstate transit infrastructure. We will call on the Legislature to create an executive-level task force charged with developing an action plan to improve transit in urban areas throughout upstate New York by identifying local funding sources and creating regional planning entities to coordinate transit plans and raise revenue.

Develop statewide rail freight infrastructure: Pass legislation to require the state Department of Transportation to develop a plan for increasing the use of freight rail throughout the state. DOT would be required to meet clearly specified targets.

 

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