U.S. Rep Max Rose (D-NY) recently sent a letter to New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo urging the implementation of a microtransit pilot program on Staten Island that would address transit deserts and increase access to public transportation options.
Microtransit programs use internet-enabled minibuses to pick up people at their locations instead of a designated bus stop and then bringing them to transportation hubs.
In Staten Island, commuters would signal for a pick-up vehicle using their mobile phones. Minibuses would take commuters to the nearest ferry terminal, Staten Island Rail Road station or express bus station.
Staten Island is not connected to the rest of New York City via subway, and 68 percent of Staten Islanders commute to work. Implementing a microtransit program could help decrease congestion, especially during rush hours.
“We believe that Staten Island can be a testing ground for microtransit, which if successful can be implemented to address other “transit deserts” around New York City and the metropolitan area,” the letter said.
The letter also was signed by State Sen. Diane Savino (D-Staten Island); New York State Assembly Members Michael Cusick (D-Mid Island), Charles Fall (D-North Shore), and Michael Reilly (R-South Shore); New York City councilmembers Joseph Borelli and Deborah Rose; and Staten Island Borough President James Oddo.