Some of the most contentious transportation discussions in the region are taking place on Long Island. For this reason, TSTC sent surveys to the incumbents and challengers in every state legislative district in Nassau and Suffolk counties. MTR is highlighting each district from which at least one candidate responded.
Democrat Joe Ferrara is challenging Republican Assemblymember Bob Barra (who is also running on the Conservative, Independence Party, and Working Family tickets) in New York’s 14th Assembly District that encompasses the middle portion of the Town of Hempstead in Nassau County. Assm. Barra said that he “does not complete questionnaires because [his] record speaks for itself,” but Mr. Ferrara provided TSTC with a completed questionnaire highlighting his stances on particular transportation issues. Here are some of the highlights:
If elected, Mr. Ferrara would support expanded bus and train service, as well as congestion pricing if it is again considered. Mr. Ferrara said he would “do everything in [his] power” to make sure that the MTA received the funding needed to expand services. He talked about streamlining government to make agencies more efficient, but said that, ultimately, grassroots advocacy will be necessary to convince elected officials and the public of the importance of mass transit and the need to adequately fund it.
To combat congestion, Mr. Ferrara said he would be a “forceful advocate” in Albany for smart growth, promoting walkable, pedestrian friendly communities with easy access to mass transit. This strategy could also improve his district’s main streets and business districts, he wrote.
Responding to a question which cited the high rates of pedestrian fatalities in Nassau County and throughout Long Island, Mr. Ferrara indicated that he would support red light cameras and other initiatives to help calm traffic. He also believes that additional funding for bike lanes and other projects that protect pedestrians is needed.
Mr. Ferrara supports the LIRR East Side Access project, the LIRR Third Track project and the Long Island Intermodal at Pilgrim State. Of the candidates responding to TSTC’s questionnaire, he was the only one to oppose outright the Route 347 lane expansion project.
Research on Assm. Barra’s transportation record found that he has sponsored legislation that would require the MTA to hold at least one public hearing in Nassau County when considering a toll increase. In addition, Assm. Barra sponsored legislation that would allow Nassau County residents to purchase tokens for use at MTA tolls at an 80% discount.
