Queens, NY- Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows) and Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rockaway) called on the MTA to invest in Queens Public transit infrastructure and dedicate funding to improve transit option for every Queens community.

"I commend the MTA on their efforts to quickly restore our transit system in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, however, they must commit new capital funding to give every Queens resident affordable and accessible transportation," said Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder. "Projects like the restoration of the Rockaway Beach Rail Line and increased bus service will provide every resident in Queens with an alternative to our currently congested system."

"As Queens neighborhoods continue to grow, lifelines and transit options must grow with them," said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic. "Now more than ever, we need innovative solutions to serve all parts of the city and particularly two-fare zone communities who have been undeserved for far too long. With over 758,000 residents commuting more than an hour each way, we must repair an obvious inequity between outlying neighborhoods of Queens."

The MTA recently outlined their current fiscal outlook and laid out priorities before the Assembly Corporations & Authorities committee hearing exploring their five year capital plan. The plan funds maintenance and expansion of the transit system – and has set aside $370 million annually for its capital program starting this fiscal year.

"Expanding opportunities for commuters and residents in transit deserts must be made a priority," said Rozic. "I look forward to working with the MTA and my colleagues in government to improve our mass transit in Queens."

"We can't keep kicking the can down the road," said Goldfeder. "A small investment today will pay dividends in the future and provide a transit system that will allow our communities and economy to grow."