Senator Phillips’ Statement on MTA “State of Emergency”

“As any LIRR commuter can tell you, our mass transportation system is at a crisis point.  Repeated infrastructure failures are forcing commuters to deal with unacceptable conditions and endless service disruptions.  It cannot continue.

Governor Cuomo’s state of emergency declaration to help expedite MTA infrastructure repairs is a very positive step, as is his directive for a comprehensive review of the capital plan.  In addition to committing $1 billion in new capital funding for the New York City subways, the Governor should also prioritize greater investments to improve the LIRR infrastructure between Jamaica Station and the East River Tunnels.  This is the biggest choke point for the country’s largest commuter railroad.  Nearly every LIRR line converges in this area to get into and out of Penn Station.  Breakdowns and delays here disrupt operations throughout the entire system. 

I remain willing and ready to work with the Governor on this issue to help commuters get the service they expect, deserve and paid for.”