Transit Manufacturers Convene in Albany
Another pole of concern about the transit capital program surfaced in Albany one day after Governor Pataki announced increased funding for road and bridge projects in the state. Some of the largest rail and bus manufacturers in North America joined with other transit companies, Environmental Advocates, the NYC Chamber of Commerce and the NY Public Transit Association for a roundtable discussion on NY State transit funding. The Dec. 13 roundtable was co-sponsored by ABB Traction (Elmira Heights) and Bombardier Inc. (Plattsburgh). The keynote address by Robert Kiley underscored the link between transit investment and economic growth, and the critical role of state funding in sustaining transit systems. A study done for the MTA by the Port Authority estimated that the MTA's 1992-96 capital plan generated over 16,000 jobs annually. The gathering was viewed by most as a first step toward better collaboration of interests in publicly making transit's case as a critical investment in NY's future. Louis Tomson, the Governor's deputy secretary for public authorities, did not comment at length on Pataki Administration transit policies, but did announce that a $10 million annual capital investment for upstate transit systems and $45 million dollars for transit passes for NYC school children were contained in the Governor's proposed budget.
