Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein (D-Bayside) and Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D, WF-Fresh Meadows) announced upcoming transit improvements including a 20% reduction for a Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) monthly pass for commuters in Northeast Queens, $3 million in funding for increased express bus service, and $6 million for first mile – last mile connections. The lawmakers reached the agreement during this year’s budget negotiations to offset the impact of congestion pricing on outer-borough commuters.

“Relief in the outer boroughs is long overdue for Northeast Queens transit riders who are far too familiar with increasing fares and travel times. As part of this year’s state budget, it was critical for us to ensure that the needs of our communities were not neglected and that our transit system is fully funded,” said Assemblywoman Rozic. “I am grateful for Assemblyman Braunstein’s partnership and look forward to seeing these improvements through their implementation.”

The agreement includes a 20% reduction in the monthly pass for commuters traveling to and from the following stations: Auburndale, Bayside, Broadway, Douglaston, Flushing-Main Street, Little Neck, and Murray Hill. A commuter traveling to and from Penn Station will save nearly $50 a month on their monthly pass. The funding for this fare discount was allocated from the Outer Borough Transit Fund, which was created by the State Legislature last year to assist those who live in areas with limited transit options.