NEW YORK PUBLIC TRANSIT ASSOCIATION HOSTS TRANSIT AWARENESS DAY

ALBANY, NY (02/04/2014)(readMedia)-- Albany, NY (February 4, 2014) –Transit managers, riders, labor and businesses convened today for Transit Awareness Day, at The Well of the Legislative Office Building (LOB) in Albany. The two-day event emphasizes the public transit industry's value to New York State's economy and sustainability efforts.

"Governor Cuomo recognizes the importance of our transit infrastructure to serving and growing the state's economy", said Carm Basile, President of the New York Public Transit Association. "And thanks to the funding provided in the Executive Budget, transit systems across the state can continue to provide safe, affordable and convenient service to our customers."

"Transit ridership is on the rise across the state, and the Governor's commitment to public transportation will help communities around the State meet this new demand for service, supporting the State's economic revitalization," he added.

NYPTA partners with the New York State Transportation Equity Alliance (NYSTEA), a coalition of environmental and rider advocacy groups, the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), the Transit Workers Union (TWU), and business partners to support the State's investment in public transportation.

"National studies have shown how investment in public transportation yields economic growth, which means jobs. Public transit is a ready partner to work with the Governor and State Legislature as they look to spur the state's economy," said Basile.

MTA Counselor to the Chairman Steve Morello spoke to rallying transit supporters, along with Karen Rae, Deputy Secretary for Transportation to the Governor, Cecil Corbin-Mark, Deputy Director of WeAct, Kevin Dawson, Regional Sales Manager, Nova Bus, Kevin Corbett, Co-chair, Empire State Transportation Alliance, Earl Phillips, Secretary/Treasurer, TWU Local 100 and Chris Boylan, Director, Governmental and Strategic Partnerships of the General Contractors Association of NY.

"New York City and its surrounding region are responsible for 11% of America's gross domestic product – and mass transit makes it possible for everyone to live, work and grow within it," said Thomas F. Prendergast, Chairman and CEO of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). "Keeping New York moving relies on keeping our subway, bus, commuter rail, bridge and tunnel network thriving. That's why our top priority in the Legislature is funding our next Capital Plan, which will invest billions of dollars into improving the MTA while boosting business across the state. As my colleagues from across New York know, if our customers don't move, neither does our economy."

In addition to the rally, Transit Awareness Day included meetings with lawmakers, a legislative reception and presentation, and industry displays.

The New York public transit industry includes more than 110 transit systems, which collectively provide more than 3.8 billion transit rides annually. Public transit systems, operating in nearly every county, provide safe, economical, and environmentally friendly alternatives to driving. In so doing, they provide real economic value by connecting people to jobs and offering real environmental benefits.

About NYPTA

The New York Public Transit Association, Inc. (NYPTA) is a not-for-profit association of public transportation service providers, private sector manufacturers and consultants, and state government agencies. The Association was formed in 1983 by representatives of the transit industry committed to the advancement of public transportation in New York State. After 30 years of operation, NYPTA remains devoted to public transportation development and representing the mass transportation needs of the riding public.

NYPTA members consist of upstate and downstate systems in rural, suburban, city, and large metropolitan localities, and account for 28 percent of all transit rides in the country.

About NYSTEA

The New York State Transportation Equity Alliance (NYSTEA) is a coalition of over 75 groups across New York State working to reform federal and state transportation policy.NYSTEA is coordinated by Empire State Future, Tri-State Transportation Campaign, UPROSE and WE ACT- combining regional land use planning, environmental justice and transportation policy experience.