Following Subway Meltdown, Comptroller Stringer Urges MTA Board to Take a Close Look at Transformation Plan
As Transformation Plan proposes further centralization of MTA functions, Board must thoroughly evaluate merits and pitfalls of prior centralization efforts and any negative impact on Friday’s Subway shutdown
Comptroller calls on Board to ensure positive impacts for bus service, commuter rail and Staten Island Railway
(New York, NY) — Following a 90 minute subway meltdown on all numbered lines during a heat wave last week at one of the busiest commuting times of the day, New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer sent a letter urging the MTA Board closely examine the proposed Transformation Plan and ensure that the Plan’s proposed centralization would not adversely affect riders and the City’s finances.
“The subway is the lifeblood of our city – and the MTA Transformation plan must truly deliver the lasting change riders need and deserve. Millions of New Yorkers and visitors rely on our subways, bridges, and buses every day and if our economy is going to remain strong, our subways must keep New Yorkers moving. Recent subway meltdowns have showed us in stark detail that reforming the MTA is absolutely urgent, but any reorganization must be done right. We have to ensure a thoughtful, thorough, and transparent process that’s fully accountable to its primary stakeholders – New Yorkers,” Comptroller Stringer said. “I urge the Board to take a close look at this proposed plan, ensure it protects the best interests of riders and the City’s finances and vote for changes if not. We cannot afford to get this wrong.”
The Comptroller called for specific attention to the proposals to further centralize Capital functions, consolidate bus operations, separate Subway and bus operations, optimize the MTA’s regional transit network with regards to commuter rail service, and the plan’s failure to include any mention of the Staten Island Railway.
To read the Comptroller’s full letter, click here.
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