Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, joined Assemblymembers representing upstate cities urging the governor and Senate to include an increase of $25 million in funding for upstate transit systems in the final state budget due April 1.
“Proper investment in small city transit will help promote local development and assist in funding much needed upgrades to services like CitiBus in Watertown,” Russell said. “A modest increase in funding will have a significant impact on the many families who rely on our transit systems every day, whether it’s getting to work or simply going to the store for basic necessities.”
The Assembly budget proposed an increase of $25 million in State Transit Operating Assistance (STOA) funding, as well as the creation of a board to recommend new ways to ensure growth among upstate systems and fiscal stability moving forward.
The governor’s budget proposal reflected a zero percent increase for all upstate transit authorities, whereas the Senate proposed a $9.3 million increase.
Upstate transit systems are facing an increasingly difficult situation if operating funds continue to be flat as the costs of maintenance and fuel rise, Russell noted. Upstate New Yorkers could see increases in fares and cuts in services as a direct result of a lack of critical funding.
“This funding represents a stabilization for the upstate transit community,” Russell said. “We’re seeing slow but steady economic growth in the North Country; we need to make sure people can access those new opportunities and I hope to build on this legacy in the future.”