Our voices forced Gov. David Paterson and the state Senate to act. After months of messages, petitions and pressure on elected officials in Albany, we stopped the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s “doomsday” plan of hiking fares and cutting service. It is called the power of your vote. Our local media also deserves kudos for highlighting the issue.
Thanks to your efforts, millions of New Yorkers have been saved from the 25 percent to 70 percent fare hikes, elimination of dozens of bus and subway lines and steep service cuts. Thousands of messages to elected officials forced them to listen to your concerns.
Albany had to agree on an alternative MTA funding plan that will provide it with billions in needed revenue while putting in place essential reforms.
As with compromises, the plan that passed is not perfect. Transit fares will still increase, but they will be nowhere near the massive hikes originally proposed. The deal only begins to address the need for long−term repairs to and expansion of our subway, bus and train systems. Our fight for an affordable, reliable mass transit system must continue.
We should celebrate because we achieved real results for New Yorkers.
Albert Baldeo
State Senate Candidate
Howard Beach
