Government
COVID-19 Crisis Confronts Transit System With a ‘Really Dire Situation’
Jeanmarie Evelly |
‘Mass transit is asking for a pittance compared to what they’re asking for,’ says one expert. ‘No eyes should be batted at $4 billion.’
‘Mass transit is asking for a pittance compared to what they’re asking for,’ says one expert. ‘No eyes should be batted at $4 billion.’
What Pete Harrison lacks in money and name recognition he is hoping to make up with bold ideas, like a $1.7 trillion plan to provide free transit for all
‘Creating financial barriers through such ongoing policies as fare increases for hardworking, low-income New Yorkers who contribute to the economic, cultural, and social fabric of our city is not for the public’s benefit. ‘
Some say the plan fails to provide meaningful service improvements that would draw riders back to the bus.
More than 150,000 residents meet the requirements for the current eligibility criteria, officials say. Of those, 76,021 have enrolled so far, and the city has been conducting outreach in the form of phone calls and letters.
For all its positives, the plan doesn’t answer all the questions facing the MTA over its finances or ability to achieve its ambitions.
‘It is well past time that our public transit opportunities caught up with our borough’s growth. The QNS is that solution. ‘
John Raskin talked about the big problem that unites all of the other challenges facing the subway, buses and commuter trains: The lack of accountability in the transit system as it now exists.
‘Infrastructure is a public good. And land value—commonly-owned, socially-created wealth—can be tapped to keep this public good alive and well.’
Gov. Andrew Cuomo released a statement at the end of June in support of a transit ban for serial offenders, calling it a ‘common sense issue.’