The New York State Assembly failed to bring congestion pricing to a vote yesterday, forfeiting $354 million in federal money for improved transit service, a long-term source of transit funding, faster commutes for subway and bus riders, and movement towards a greener region. The plan had to be approved by midnight last night to qualify for the federal dollars.

The event was a sign of failure in Albany and a call to action for New York City residents to elect new state leaders.

It’s hard to know what more was desired by NYS Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, who is largely responsible for roadblocking the plan. Congestion pricing had the support of Governor Patterson, the City Council, the State Senate, the federal government, over 160 organizations, and the majority of New York City and New York State residents (if the money went to transit service). In July, Silver commenced a year-long public process that resulted in a better plan. Nonetheless, Silver refused to even bring the plan to a vote yesterday, saying he didn’t have the support necessary to approve it. Assemblymembers were left completely off the hook, without having to take a public stance on an important and controversial issue. New Yorkers deserve better.

Many state politicians blamed the failure of the plan on what they perceived as Mayor Bloomberg’s “heavy-handed approach” in selling congestion pricing. While Bloomberg has never been the smoothest politician, a clumsy tone is not an excuse for smart policies to fall by the wayside.

The transit funding discussion is not going anywhere. The MTA now faces a $13 billion funding gap in its 2008-2013 capital program. Absent a giant influx of state funds, riders will see a cycle of fare increases and deteriorated service. Transit riders should hold NYS Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and his fellow legislators responsible for the fate of our transit system and for figuring out how to raise the revenue necessary to maintain and expand our transit network.

Image: This advertisement, outside TSTC’s main office and above the Lincoln Tunnel entrance, seemed particularly appropriate.