New York Public Transit Association (NYPTA) expressed support for Governor's Executive Budget.

ALBANY, NY (01/23/2014)(readMedia)-- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thursday, January 23, 2014

CONTACT:

Carm Basile, President

New York Public Transit Association

518-437-6840

518-434-9060

New York Public Transit Association (NYPTA) expressed support for Governor's Executive Budget.

"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."

The Governor's Executive Budget released on January 21, increases statewide transit operating assistance by 3.2%. Funding would increase by $2.3 m. for upstate systems, $5.6 m. for downstate systems, and $149 m. for the MTA.

The budget proposal also provides capital funding for upstate and downstate systems, and continues the state's commitment to fund the MTA 2010-14 capital program.

"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.

About NYPTA: The New York Public Transit Association, Inc. (NYPTA) is a not-for-profit association representing transit systems across New York State including the MTA, the largest public transportation systems in the nation, the four upstate regional transportation authorities, and the transportation systems that serve rural upstate New York communities. In addition, NYPTA is comprised of more than 90 private sector manufacturers, consultants and state government agencies. Members provide nearly all of the public transportation services in New York State, one-third of the public transportation services in the nation, and employ more than 75,000 New Yorkers.