Cuomo suggests New York City should manage subway improvements instead of the MTA.

In an effort to reshape New York City’s transportation infrastructure, independent mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo unveiled a proposal inviting the state-run Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to transfer certain powers to the city. Announced during a breakfast meeting held by the Association for a Better New York, Cuomo’s initiative seeks to grant the city control over the capital construction and maintenance of its subway system. This includes major redevelopment projects, significant improvements to upgrade existing stations, enhancements to the antiquated signal systems, measures to increase accessibility for disabled riders, and the purchasing of new subway cars.

Cuomo’s proposal necessitates approval from the MTA board, where only four of the seventeen members are appointed by the city’s mayor. He contended that his experience as mayor would enable him to better manage the billions of dollars allocated to the MTA than the current state-operated framework. Notably, he highlighted the potential for transforming the city’s subway system, suggesting that a streamlined approach could significantly enhance service quality and accessibility, ultimately changing public perceptions of the transit network.

Despite his ambitious proposal, Cuomo faces stiff competition in the upcoming election, particularly from frontrunner Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist whose campaign prominently features a commitment to offer free bus services. Current polling data indicates that Cuomo’s chances of garnering a significant voter base remain tenuous, especially as long as Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa remains a contender.

Cuomo’s legacy as the former governor includes contentious moments while overseeing the MTA, particularly in the face of rising subway delays and public dissatisfaction. During his time in office, he faced scrutiny when the MTA redirected funds to support struggling state-run ski resorts, drawing criticism amidst increasing operational challenges for New York’s transit system.

Critics of Cuomo’s new proposal have emerged swiftly, including statements from transit advocacy groups that recall the former governor’s previous tenure. They assert that his recent pronouncements contradict his past leadership, which they argue failed to adequately address the spike in service interruptions during his eleven years at the helm.

Currently, the MTA operates on an annual budget nearing billion, with the majority of its funds sourced from the state. The agency’s existing five-year capital plan, valued at billion, includes approximately billion allocated for the procurement of new subway cars, alongside significant investments towards modernizing signaling systems and increasing station accessibility.

Cuomo has referenced successful projects from his administration, including the construction of the Moynihan Train Hall and recent developments at LaGuardia Airport, as evidence of his capability to enact meaningful changes in infrastructure. As discussions around his subway control proposal intensify, the impact on the electoral landscape and future transit policies in New York City remains to be seen.

Media News Source