What do we want?
Transportation affects us all, but some New Yorkers are disproportionately more burdened by the inadequacies of our transportation system; particularly low-income residents, communities of color, the disabled, the elderly, and children.
What is Transportation Equity?
Equitable transportation is people-centered, protects our health, prioritizes sustainable communities, gives everyone a voice in the planning process and is the underpinning of a vibrant economy.
Why do we need Transportation Equity?
Transportation determines how we get to the places where we live, work and play. Unfortunately, the transportation system in New York is flawed due to imbalanced funding that favors cars over other modes of transportation. As a result, residents across the state are facing transit service cuts, increased travel costs, negative health impacts, environmental degradation, reduced access to jobs and risks linked to climate change.
Why now?
It is time to address the inadequacies of previous federal surface transportation legislation. The expiration of the existing federal law, SAFETEA-LU, provides a key opportunity to re-shape transportation in New York now. Working together, we can create a system that prioritizes efficient and equitable mobility for all. New Yorkers deserve better!
Who can help transform NY’s transportation system?
We can. Building an equitable transportation system requires a diverse array of voices that represents communities from all corners of NY State. It will take a broad coalition of organizations from upstate and downstate including labor, civic, faith-based, environmental, community based, environmental and social justice, planners, business, public health and elected officials to ensure that all New Yorkers are represented in the upcoming federal transportation legislation.
The New York State Transportation Equity Alliance (NYSTEA) wants the next federal transportation bill to move from prioritizing highways toward building livable communities for all. To do this, the bill must:
- Re-prioritize highway funds toward public transit, in particular for the expansion of bus services, which have traditionally been under-funded.
- Include transit operating assistance, contingent on a local or state match, for the daily operations of our transit system.
- Transform the transportation planning process by:
- Providing greater spending transparency and encouraging public participation.
- Incorporating the principles of Smart Growth.
- Create green jobs that are local and provide training and employment opportunities for populations currently underrepresented in the labor force.
- Improve availability, access and safety of bike and pedestrian infrastructure in the most underserved communities.
The New York State Transportation Equity Alliance needs your help to lead this movement. Together we will move New York State toward a more equitable and prosperous future.
