The Transport Workers Union is suing the MTA over alleged bus service cuts, claiming the reductions were made to save money due to a pause on congestion pricing. The lawsuit seeks to stop further cuts and argues that the MTA violated state law by not providing proper notice of the reductions. The MTA denies the claims and calls the lawsuit unnecessary. The dispute highlights tensions over budget constraints and service levels in the public transportation system.
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) is taking legal action against top officials at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) for alleged service cuts causing longer wait times for bus riders. The lawsuit filed in Manhattan Supreme Court by Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and TWU Local 100 leaders accuses the MTA of violating New York State Public Authorities Law by reducing bus runs without proper notice to city officials. The lawsuit seeks to halt the ongoing cuts in bus service and cites the pause on congestion pricing by Governor Kathy Hochul as a reason for the budget constraints faced by the MTA.
The law requires a 30-day notice to be given to the mayor and city council before any non-emergency service reductions are implemented by state authorities like the MTA. The TWU, representing transit workers, argues that the pause on congestion pricing led to orders to reduce operating budgets and overtime for bus operators to cover for any shortage of staff. This move contradicts the MTA’s earlier statements that the lack of congestion pricing revenue would only impact capital projects and not passenger services.
The court filings highlight the significant number of canceled bus runs from various depots, resulting in longer waits and inconsistent service for commuters. The lawsuit points to the impact on riders, especially during extreme weather conditions, when buses are not operating as scheduled. The legal action names MTA officials, including the Chairperson and CEO, as defendants in the case challenging the service reductions.
TWU International President John Samuelsen criticized the service cuts as an attack on working-class New Yorkers, linking the reduction in service directly to the halt in congestion pricing. The MTA, in response, criticized TWU Local 100 President Richard Davis, accusing him of hindering the agency’s efforts to secure funding for much-needed capital projects. The MTA spokesperson highlighted the successful advocacy for an operating budget under Governor Hochul’s leadership, protecting jobs and services in the face of financial challenges.
This legal battle between TWU Local 100 and the MTA echoes a previous dispute over transit service levels during the pandemic. While the MTA has recently increased service on several subway lines, the union is now challenging the agency over bus service cuts. The lawsuit coincides with efforts by city officials and law enforcement to address subway crime rates, with a noticeable decrease in incidents reported in recent months.
Mayor Eric Adams, MTA Chairperson Janno Lieber, and NYPD Transit Bureau Chief Michael Kemper have highlighted the progress made in reducing subway crime and improving safety measures in the transit system. The increased police presence and installation of cameras on subway cars are part of the strategy to enhance security and restore public confidence in using public transportation.
In conclusion, the legal dispute between TWU and the MTA over bus service cuts underscores the challenges faced by transit agencies in balancing operational needs with financial constraints. The outcome of this lawsuit will not only impact bus riders but also have broader implications for public transportation in New York City.
Source: TheCity.NYC
