Riders, state legislators and transit advocates spoke out Sunday against Governor Cuomo’s proposed raid of $40 million in transit funds for subway and bus services.
In his January executive budget, Cuomo proposed that the state use that money to pay off bonds it originally took out to help the MTA financially, but promised to pay back using state money.
Advocates say the raid breaks earlier vows the state made to the MTA and its riders.
Straphanger George Christman, 52, of Astoria said he hopes Cuomo thinks twice about it — and uses the money to keep fares down.
“Being disabled and on a fixed income, it’s hard to come up with the money for the fare each month,” said Christman. “I hope they think about stealing the $40 million, and don’t do it.”
John Raskin, executive director of the advocacy group Rider’s Alliance, was also critical. “Fares are going up every two years, but they’re not adding service at that same pace.”
More than 30 state Assembly members, led by Assemblyman Jim Brennan, sent a letter to Cuomo, asking that the money be restored to the transit budget. Brennan’s district includes Park Slope and Windsor Terrace.