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New York State Joint Legislative Budget Hearing on Transportation for FY2026
Thank you for the opportunity to testify. My name is Jaqi Cohen and I am the Director of Climate and Equity Policy for Tri-State Transportation
Thank you for the opportunity to testify. My name is Jaqi Cohen and I am the Director of Climate and Equity Policy for Tri-State Transportation
Ensuring safety for all transit riders is critical, but increasing police presence is not the solution our system or communities deserve.
By rejecting Governor Hochul’s multimillion-dollar settlement offer, Governor Murphy is hurting NJ Transit riders only to spite New York. This once-in-a-generation opportunity would secure dedicated
This milestone brings us one step closer to delivering cleaner air, less traffic, and a more reliable transit system for millions of New Yorkers.
Governor Hochul’s decision to restart congestion pricing is the right move and a necessary step to ensure safer streets, cleaner air, and a fully funded transit system. All of the region stands to benefit from the Governor’s bold action. We need clear timelines to ensure this program is up and running before the next federal administration takes office so we can guarantee a transit system that works for everyone.
As Climate Week approaches, the stakes are clear: New York must embrace the bold policy that is congestion pricing to combat the climate crisis. Despite the misinformation surrounding it, congestion pricing is a legally mandated program that is essential for improving New Yorkers’ quality of life and health now and forever by reducing traffic, lowering emissions, and providing cleaner air for all New Yorkers.
However, in order to fund this crucial program, we need congestion pricing now. Delaying its implementation would not only undermine the capital plan but also hinder New York’s ability to tackle the climate crisis.
No one should face violence over the price of a subway fare. Public transportation is a lifeline for millions, especially for low-income individuals and communities of color, who are disproportionately impacted by fare evasion enforcement. Instead of punitive measures, we must work toward a transit system that is equitable and accessible to all.
It was abundantly clear that our infrastructure carried an underlying assumption—people should simply drive cars, and thus, no one should need to walk or travel in any other way.
Each World Cup Host has a chance to do something remarkable. They can create real, lasting changes in their cities that can push them towards a more sustainable future.
The bones for decent transit service exist in Whitestone – it’s the frequency that needs improvement.
Diesel emissions from heavy-duty trucks are a leading source of air pollution, contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, increased cancer risks, and premature mortality. In California alone, the ACF rule is expected to save around 2,500 lives by 2050 and deliver roughly $26.5 billion in health savings.