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MAYOR GIULIANI SIGNS BILL EXTENDING OPERATION OF
SEVEN PRIVATE BUS COMPANIES

Remarks by Mayor Giuliani at Public Hearing on Local Law

The bill before me today is Introductory Number 786, sponsored by Council Members Eisland and McCaffrey. This bill would amend the New York City Charter by authorizing the Department of Transportation to extend the operating authority to December 31, 2003 for the seven private bus companies that participate in the City's subsidized franchise bus program.

The seven bus companies constitute a vital link in the City's surface transportation network by carrying more than 100 million riders annually. Under the current law, the operating authority for these private companies will expire on December 31, 2002. While it is a goal of my Administration to increase competition in the subsidized franchise program through competitive bidding, it is imperative that there be no interruption in service.

As we continue to work towards a competitive bidding system, this legislation will provide the Department of Transportation with the flexibility to seek extensions of the operating authority of the seven bus companies to avoid any such service interruptions. Ultimately, this competitive bidding system should result in improved service for the millions of commuters who rely on this bus program, as well as lower the overall subsidy paid by the City.

For the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.

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