New York Transit Systems Urges Congressional Action on COVID-19 Relief Package

ALBANY, NY (12/11/2020) (readMedia)-- The New York Public Transit Association sent a letter today to New York's Congressional delegation asking them to support at least $32 billion for the state's transit systems in the COVID-19 relief package being discussed in Washington, DC. The letter highlights the operational and financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on New York's transit systems; transit's role as the mobility safety net for our state's communities; transit as the foundation of New York's recovery; and the impact communities would face without federal funding.

Following is the appeal sent on behalf of the New York Public Transit Association:

Dear Elected Official,

The New York Public Transit Association (NYPTA) represents over 100 transit systems across New York State; serving more than one-third of the nation's transit customers. Our systems make critical connections for people across our state and we urge you to support our effort to secure at least $32 billion in funding to maintain public transit services across the country in any COVID-19 federal relief package.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, transit services in New York have played a key role in providing transportation to essential workers and to others who need healthcare, food, or emergency services. The health and safety of our customers and employees continues to be our priority. Our systems have stepped up during the pandemic to maintain services, provide a safety net to support communities, and help the economy recover.

The decline in travel and reduced economic activity from the pandemic has eroded transit revenues. Funding in the CARES Act kept transit operating and was greatly appreciated. But without additional federal relief, the loss of revenue caused by the COVID-19 pandemic will force transit systems to reduce service, lay off employees, and eliminate capital projects and equipment purchases to balance budgets. In New York, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is considering cuts in bus and subway service up to 40% and commuter rails up to 50%. Atlanta has suspended 70 of 110 bus routes while transit agencies in Washington, D.C. and Boston are seriously considering eliminating weekend service.

The lack of further relief will have terrible implications on essential workers and those with no travel alternatives. It would also have a severe impact on the private sector industries and contractors that support public transit. If additional relief is not secured, our combined annual capital investment of ten billion dollars would be severely reduced creating a further residual impacts to private sector jobs across the nation.

On behalf of transit systems throughout New York State, our 75,000 employees, vast network of suppliers and contractors, and more than 9 million daily customers, we ask that you include at least $32 billion in transit funding in the next COVID-19 relief legislation.

Sincerely,

Bill Carpenter, President

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