As lawmakers focus on affordability for New Yorkers this legislative session, one of the easiest solutions is already in front of us: investing more in public transit. Safe, affordable, reliable transportation is essential to helping New Yorkers manage rising costs while sustaining strong local economies throughout the state.
Public transit connects people to jobs, education and health care – without the high costs associated with owning and maintaining a car. According to the American Public Transportation Association, an individual can save an average of more than $13,000 a year, or approximately $1,100 per month, by taking public transportation rather than driving. For working families, seniors, students and people with disabilities, transit is often the most affordable way to get to work, school, medical appointments and essential services. Even for those who do not ride regularly, public transit helps keep overall transportation costs down by reducing congestion and supporting more efficient communities.
Transit systems are the backbone of local economies with every dollar invested generating approximately $5 in economic returns. Hospitals, grocery stores, banks, colleges and universities, school districts and nonprofit organizations all rely on public transit to ensure employees, students and volunteers arrive on time. These systems operate seven days a week – early mornings through late nights – supporting workers and employers alike while keeping transportation costs predictable and manageable.
Despite these clear economic and affordability benefits, state funding for public transit has not kept pace with increasing costs, growing demand or the need for infrastructure investment. Aging buses, outdated facilities and workforce pressures threaten service reliability at a time when more New Yorkers are turning to public transit to save money. With operating costs continuing to rise, the reality is that flat funding is a cut in funding because it does not keep pace with inflation, growth and expansion needs.
The New York Public Transit Association, which represents transit systems, manufacturers, and suppliers across the state, urges lawmakers to increase state operating assistance and capital funding for public transit in the FY 2026–27 budget. Strong, sustained investment will help keep fares affordable, maintain reliable service, and modernize systems to meet the needs of today’s riders.
Public transit is not only a transportation service – it is a critical affordability tool. It supports New York’s goals to address the cost of living, expand access to affordable housing, reduce emissions and drive economic growth. These statewide priorities will only be achieved with strong and well-funded transit networks.
As lawmakers debate affordability this year, fully funding public transit should be part of the solution – for our communities, our economy and New York state’s future.
Miguel Velázquez is the CEO of the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority and president of the New York Public Transit Association.
