Panel discussion to focus on state funding for sustainable public transit
SCHENECTADY – Mayor Gary McCarthy will join public transit advocates from across the state on Tuesday to meet and discuss their advocacy priorities and immediate needs for the 2019 state budget. As President of the New York Conference of Mayors (NYCOM), Mayor McCarthy will be participating in a panel discussion hosted by the New York Public Transit Association (NYPTA) and the New Yorkers For Better Public Transit coalition for Transit Awareness Day.
The focus of the discussion will be the importance of sustainable, long-term funding for transit systems across the state in order to increase access and mobility for residents while also supporting the environment and regional economic development. The forum will be held 7:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. at the Renaissance Albany, and will feature transit experts, advocates and legislators.
“Public transportation investment is critical to support long-term sustainable revitalization and economic growth in communities like Schenectady and across the state,” Mayor McCarthy said. “These green investments protect the environment, reduce energy consumption, and are key components to increasing mobility and access for residents between neighborhoods.”
The panel also includes Julie Tighe, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters, Denise Richardson, Executive Director of the General Contractors Association of New York, David Stackrow, Chair of the American Public Transportation Association, Mark Eagan, CEO of the Capital Region Chamber; as well as the Chairs of the Senate and Assembly Transportation Committees and Committees on Corporations, Authorities, and Commissions.
Mayor McCarthy noted that green investments in alternative transportation and public transit are critical to support the ongoing community development and neighborhood improvement in Schenectady. The City is conducting a Complete Streets Linkage Study in partnership with the Capital District Transportation Committee (CDTC) along the Craig Street – Main Avenue corridor between Albany Street in Hamilton Hill and Crane Street in Mont Pleasant. With anticipated completion in the fall, the study will analyze and make recommendations for safe and efficient mobility for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders.
"Adequate funding for public transportation needs are critical for the continued revitalization of Schenectady and metropolitan areas across the state," Mayor McCarthy said. "Many residents in Schenectady rely on public transit to get to and from their jobs and to feed their families. We have to address their needs in a fair and sustainable way."
Created in 1983, NYPTA is the professional trade association that advocates on behalf of over 130 local public transit providers and their millions of riders across New York State.
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