Statement from Governor Andrew M. Cuomo on the MTA

Statement

"Yesterday, an alternative plan for the L Train renovation was presented which would be faster, better and probably less expensive. The plan was developed by experts from Cornell and Columbia in collaboration with the MTA and the expert consultants who worked with the MTA in designing the original tunnel restoration. For the plan to proceed, as Acting Chairman Freddy Ferrer said yesterday, the MTA Board would have to alter current contracts with the contractors presently engaged in the tunnel's restoration. I urge the MTA Board to hold an emergency meeting to review the alternative plan and allow the public the opportunity to understand and comment on the plan, and for the MTA Board, in its discretion, to commence a revised plan if that is their conclusion.

"The MTA is also implementing the Subway Action Plan which has now been fully funded. At the same time, the MTA is implementing the Fast Forward Plan, which would install communications-based train control (CBTC) as a new signal system. CBTC is currently the best accepted industry standard. As I have discussed in the past, I also think the MTA should be open to exploring new technologies, which may prove more effective and expeditious. There is a system that utilizes ultra-wideband (UWB), which is also currently being explored by different transportation networks in the country and offers significant benefits. The UWB system option is also being explored by the MTA. The MTA is installing the CBTC system until an alternative - such as UWB - is determined to be viable. I believe that is the most appropriate approach at this time."

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