New York City deserves a world-class public transportation system that reflects the needs and aspirations of its people. Our transit network is not just a means of getting from point A to point B—it is a lifeline for millions of New Yorkers, connecting them to jobs, education, healthcare, and opportunity. Public transportation is also vital to reducing our carbon footprint, improving air quality, and fostering healthier communities. By advocating for smart policies and bold investments, we can transform our public transportation into a model of efficiency, inclusivity, and innovation while addressing the environmental challenges of our time.

Accessibility and Expansion

Accessibility and expansion are the cornerstones of a modern transit system. It’s time to ensure that every New Yorker, regardless of mobility challenges or location, has access to reliable public transportation. Studies show that accessible transit systems lead to increased economic activity, better health outcomes, and more equitable cities.

• ADA Accessibility: The MTA must receive better funding to accelerate ADA accessibility upgrades at all subway stations. Currently, less than 30% of NYC subway stations are ADA compliant, limiting mobility for thousands of residents. Accessible transit is not optional; it’s a necessity for creating an equitable and inclusive city.

• Second Avenue Subway Line: Expanding the Second Avenue Subway is crucial for improving transit equity and reducing overcrowding. The first phase of the project boosted local businesses and cut travel times for East Side residents. Completing this line will bring similar benefits to more communities.

• Interborough Express Line: The Interborough Express will revolutionize borough-to-borough connectivity, making it easier for Brooklyn and Queens residents to commute without traveling through Manhattan. With 900,000 people living along its proposed route, this transformative project should begin immediately.

• LaGuardia Airport Extension: A direct transit link to LaGuardia Airport is essential for creating a seamless travel experience for New Yorkers and visitors alike. This will reduce traffic congestion and air pollution in nearby communities while modernizing airport access.

Safety and Sustainability

Public transit should be both safe and sustainable. Ensuring the well-being of riders and workers while making environmentally conscious improvements is critical for the future of our system. Studies have shown that enhanced safety measures increase ridership and trust in public transportation systems.

• Safety Enhancements: Increased police presence at every station through the reinstatement of MTA Police will help ensure safety for both riders and workers. Every commuter deserves peace of mind, and data from similar initiatives in other cities has shown a measurable decrease in crime.

• Stronger Protections for Workers: Transit workers face unacceptable risks. Assault penalties must be strengthened, and incidents like spitting on employees should carry significant consequences. A dedicated restitution fund is essential to support workers who are assaulted on the job, providing financial and emotional relief.

• OMNY Cash Transactions: Station Agents must be empowered to process OMNY cash transactions directly from booths. This change will reduce barriers for unbanked riders, a demographic that includes approximately 11% of NYC households, and streamline the customer experience.

Fairer and Smarter Fares

Affordability and fairness in transit fares are vital to keeping our system accessible to all. Smarter fare policies can also incentivize sustainable commuting patterns and reduce peak-hour congestion, as demonstrated in cities like London and Singapore.

• Fair Fares Program Expansion: Simplifying and expanding access to Fair Fares will help more low-income New Yorkers benefit from discounted transit options. Research indicates that affordable transit options improve access to employment and healthcare for vulnerable populations.

• Off-Peak Pricing: Introducing reduced fares during off-peak hours will encourage riders to travel at less congested times, benefiting both commuters and the system as a whole. Data from off-peak pricing pilots has shown increases in overall ridership.

• Citi Bike Fare Cap: Capping Citi Bike e-bike trips to the cost of a subway fare for trips under 30 minutes will make micro-mobility more affordable and equitable for all New Yorkers. Studies have shown that increasing micro-mobility options reduces car traffic and emissions.

Streets and Transit Infrastructure

Streets and transit infrastructure should prioritize people over cars, creating safer, more vibrant spaces for all. Research has consistently linked walkable, bike-friendly streets to improved air quality, reduced traffic injuries, and enhanced community well-being.

• Protected Bike Lanes: The city’s bike lane network must be expanded and truly protected. Separating bike lanes from car traffic with bollards, trees, and greenery will enhance safety and beautify our streets. Cities like Copenhagen have shown that protected bike lanes significantly increase cycling rates and reduce car dependency.

• Enforcing Bike Lane Laws: Vehicles blocking bike lanes must face stricter penalties. Bike lanes should be reserved for Class 1/2/3 e-bikes, bicycles, Citi Bikes, scooters, e-scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, and similar devices, with gas-powered mopeds prohibited. This will ensure safer, more efficient use of these vital corridors.

• Bus-Only Lanes: Expanding bus-only lanes will speed up commutes and improve reliability for transit riders and emergency vehicles. According to a 2019 NYC DOT study, dedicated bus lanes can improve travel times by up to 30%.

• Pedestrian Plazas: Increasing pedestrian plazas city-wide will reduce vehicle traffic and create spaces that foster community engagement and improve quality of life. Data from Times Square’s pedestrianization showed a 60% reduction in injuries and a boost to local businesses.

Technology and Innovative solutions

The future of transit lies in leveraging technology to improve efficiency, enforce regulations, and enhance the rider experience. Data and technology must be harnessed to create smarter, more responsive transit solutions.

• Advanced Traffic Enforcement: AI, machine learning, and enhanced camera systems can transform parking and traffic enforcement, ensuring compliance with traffic laws and reducing congestion. Cities like Stockholm have successfully used congestion pricing to cut traffic by 20% and emissions by 10%.

• Station Sponsorships: Licensing partial naming and advertising rights to private companies can generate significant revenue. These agreements should include conditions to protect MTA jobs and ensure improvements align with community standards while bringing in millions of dollars annually for transit enhancements.

Long-Term Investments

A thriving transit system requires bold, sustained investment. By prioritizing the following areas, we can ensure our system is ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow:

• Increased Funding: Consistent and reliable funding is essential to addressing the MTA’s current challenges and preparing for future demands. Investing in infrastructure, workforce development, and modern technologies will yield long-term benefits, including reduced maintenance costs and greater system reliability.

• Supporting MTA Workers: Advocating for better working conditions, including fair wages, improved benefits, and safer workplaces, is fundamental to the success of our public transportation system. Happy, supported workers are key to providing excellent service to riders.

This vision reflects the transportation system New Yorkers deserve—one that is safe, accessible, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of our communities. By improving health, reducing emissions, and fostering economic growth, a better transit system is an investment in the future of our city. Together, we can build a public transit system that enhances our quality of life, supports our economy, and strengthens our city for generations to come.