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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 312-05
August 9, 2005

MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG SIGNS LEGISLATION EXTENDING THE OPERATING AUTHORITY FOR FOUR PRIVATE BUS FRANCHISES

Remarks by Mayor Bloomberg at a Public Hearing on Local Laws

"The last bill before me today is Introductory Number 682, sponsored at the request of the Administration by Council Members Katz, Avella and Comrie.  This legislation authorizes the Department of Transportation to extend the date of the operating authority for four private bus franchises operating in the City to a date no later than November 30, 2005.  These private bus franchises include Command, Triboro, Green and Jamaica Bus Lines.

"Intro. 682 will allow for a smooth transition of these bus routes to the MTA without any inconvenience to riders.  These four private bus companies provide service to more than 137,000 riders every day on 693 buses traversing fifty-one bus routes between Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan.

"As I have said in the past, I believe that the MTA, which is charged with the responsibility of providing affordable mass transportation for the people of our metropolitan area, has the requisite economies of scale and transportation expertise to provide the highest quality of service for the riding public.  The transfer of these routes to the MTA brings us one step closer to achieving one unified and streamlined bus system.

"In the interim, signing this legislation will enable the City to continue uninterrupted service for the more than 137,000 passengers who rely on these bus companies for transportation to and from work, school, and their everyday destinations throughout the boroughs.

"I would like to thank DOT Commissioner Iris Weinshall and her staff for their work on this bill.  I would also like to thank the Council for shepherding this bill through the legislative process."







MEDIA CONTACT:


Edward Skyler / Jordan Barowitz   (212) 788-2958




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