The “TEA” in recent multi-year federal transportation laws like TEA-21 (enacted in 1998) and the current legislation, SAFETEA-LU, stands for “Transportation Equity Act.” But those laws have fallen short in providing an equitable transportation system that provides mobility, involves community members in the planning process, and protects the environment and human health. That’s why a new coalition, the New York State Transportation Equity Alliance — NYSTEA — is seeking reform of federal transportation policy so that it better reflects the needs of New Yorkers, particularly low-income residents, communities of color, the disabled, the elderly, and children. The coalition’s founding members are the Tri-State Transportation Campaign, Empire State Future, UPROSE, and WE ACT for Environmental Justice.

NYSTEA’s goals for the new transportation bill, currently being debated in Congress, include:

• A re-prioritization of highway funds towards transit, especially buses;
• Federal operating aid to transit agencies;
• Greater transparency and public participation in the planning process;
• The creation of local, green jobs for underrepresented populations in the labor force; and
• Improved availability, access, and safety of bike and pedestrian infrastructure in underserved areas.

Coalition members were in Washington, D.C. earlier in the year and will continue to meet with New York groups and federal representatives to share our platform and show the broad support in the state for these reforms.  Please consider signing your organization onto our platform (PDF).