Paramus, NJ– Coach USA and its subsidiary Megabus along with all the other private bus operators who transport millions into New York City spoke in favor of the Traffic Mobility Review Board and MTA granting them an exemption from tolls which will be imposed on all vehicles going into the Congestion Toll Program Zone at a hearing held by the New York City Council Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Dan Rodriguez, Vice President of Public Affairs for Coach USA and the President of the Bus Association of New Jersey stated, “Every day and year we along with all the other private bus operators, bring tens of thousands and millions of people into New York City. Those millions include individuals who work, go to Broadway for shows, stay at NYC hotels and are tourists, all of whom pour billions into the economy of New York. We are seeking an exemption from tolls for the Congestion Zone as is the case in London, Stockholm, and Singapore all which provide exemptions both to public and private bus operators. It’s done because buses do exactly what the law intends, take millions of cars off the roads, and lessen carbon emissions.”
He added, “Buses are the most affordable mode of transportation at $10.50 on average into New York City, and for many it’s the only form of transportation available to them. If buses are tolled in addition to all other tolls and expenses, fares will go up. That’s the last thing we want to do in today’s inflationary environment. Moreover, 83% of New York voters say that public transportation such as buses provides easy access to the things they rely on in their daily lives.”
Coach USA is committed to addressing New York’s traffic congestion concerns and lessening carbon emissions, but not at the expense of its customers. The existing traffic congestion generated by passenger cars and their emissions negatively impacts quality of life, public health, and businesses. However, buses, which serve public interests, should not be penalized through congestion tolls. By removing millions of cars from Manhattan streets each day, Coach USA and the other bus operators are significantly reducing the carbon footprint.
“We hope that the Traffic Mobility Review Board and MTA see that we’re part of the solution and a public benefit that should not be penalized with tolls.” Commented Dan Rodriguez.
Testimony given at New York City Council hearing available upon request.
About Coach USA: Coach USA is one of the nation’s largest transportation companies where the top priority is the safety of its customers and employees. We operate over 2,500 vehicles and have over 5,000 employees who serve millions of passengers. Coach USA provides critical local and intercity transport services for communities throughout the United States and Canada via Coach Canada. Coach USA also owns and operates Megabus – the first, low-cost, express bus service to provide intercity travel for as low as a dollar. Since launching in 2006, Megabus has served more than 50 million customers throughout more than 100 cities across the nation.
