The letter outlined a 4-part plan to rescue and improve MTA operations, including the following:
• Decreasing administration overhead by 10% per year for 4 years. By streamlining organizational infrastructure, the MTA would be able to maintain efficient operations while cutting out luxurious auxiliary factors. Rep. Weiner estimated that this action would result in savings of $137 million in the first year, and $471 million by 2012. “It is time to do more with less,” wrote Rep. Weiner.
• Limiting tolls at East and Harlem River bridges to non-New York City residents. This measure would ensure that New York middle class is not overburdened by additional financial challenges in the economic downtime. Rep. Weiner calculated that a $4.15 commuter toll on East River and Harlem River bridges aimed at non New York City residents would generate approximately $391 million per year in revenue.
• Increase New York City representation on the MTA board. Rep. Weiner proposed that 4 additional board members be appointed by the Mayor, while representation appointed by the Governor and surrounding counties is reduced by a total of 5 votes. “New Yorkers have the right to make decisions about the transportation system that travels on their roads and beneath their homes,” he wrote.
• Hold MTA accountable for its spending. The proposal urges the government to require complete transparency in MTA’s reporting of all spending. Such measure will provide accountability, enable accurate calculations of savings, and improve the public’s view of the organization.
“I believe this plan will do two things,” stated Rep. Weiner. “First, it will solve what amounts to a fiscal crisis at the MTA and will help ensure that all New Yorkers can enjoy an affordable, sustainable transportation system. Second, this plan will transform the MTA from a closed, inefficient bureaucracy- mired in stagnation- into an organization that embraces the spirit of innovation and accountability that will help it improve now and in the future.”
