PlanNYC: PlaNYC 2030

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PlaNYC 2030

In December 2006, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg unveiled plaNYC 2030, a challenge to New Yorkers “to generate ideas for achieving ten key goals for the city’s sustainable future.” Organized into six key areas (Land, Water, Transportation, Energy, Air, and Climate Change), the plaNYC 2030 project is targeting ten goals, ideally achievable by the year 2030, to allow for the growth and sustenance of New York City’s industry, population, environment, and infrastructure. The goals of plaNYC 2030, in no particular order of importance, are as follows:

1. Create homes for almost a million more New Yorkers, while making housing more affordable and sustainable
2. Ensure that all New Yorkers live within a 10-minute walk of a park
3. Clean up all contaminated land in New York
4. Open 90% of our waterways for recreation by reducing water pollution and preserving our natural areas
5. Develop critical back-up systems for our aging water network to ensure long-term reliability
6. Improve travel times by adding transit capacity for millions more residents
7. Reach a full “state of good repair” on New York City’s roads, subways, and rails for the first time in history
8. Provide cleaner, more reliable power for every New Yorker by upgrading our energy infrastructure
9. Achieve the cleanest air quality of any big city in America
10. Reduce global warming emissions by more than 30%

(This list was provided by the Office of the Mayor and is available at: http://www.nyc.gov/html/planyc2030/html/plan/plan.shtml)

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New Ferry Service Provides Commuting Options

Tuesday, May 06, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Transportation

The New York Water Taxi will begin operating a new city subsidized ferry route from Far Rockaway to lower Manhattan via Brooklyn. New York Water Taxi is also restarting service from Pier 11 in Manhattan to Long Island City on the East Side and plans to begin service again to South Williamsburg after the completion of a new launch at Schaefer Landing. Mayor Bloomberg said that ferry service is “going to become an even bigger part of our city’s transportation network” because of the high costs of gasoline and waterfront revitalization efforts.

PlaNYC 2030 One Year Later Has Mixed Support

Tuesday, April 22, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Environment

In a report issued by the New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund, support for Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC 2030 plan is mixed. The report cites victories in greenhouse gas emissions reduction by City government, progress on the one million tree initiative, and funding for energy efficiency programs within City government. A major concern outlined in the report is that only a few of the Mayor’s policies have been codified into law.

City May Focus On NYC Buildings Going “Green”

Monday, April 21, 2008 | Metro New York | Topic: Environment

As PlaNYC 2030’s one-year anniversary approaches, there is speculation that the environmental initiative may focus on greening the City’s buildings, which make up 80 percent of NYC’s carbon emissions. Cutting energy emissions of buildings will likely many different approaches – both incentives and mandates. Some suggest that the City could conduct an energy audit of large buildings to make sure that they are operating at peak efficiency.

Volunteers Clean Park as Part of PlaNYC Initiative

Saturday, April 19, 2008 | NY1 | Topic: Environment

Neighbors, officials and volunteers joined together on Saturday to clean up East Harlem Park and plant about 350 trees, as part of the PlaNYC 2030 initiative. The purpose of the clean-up was to beautify the park, but also to improve the neighborhood’s air quality with the addition of the trees. Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC 2030 plan includes an initiative to plant a million trees in the city over the next decade.

New Approaches to Congestion Clearing

Monday, April 14, 2008 | Gotham Gazette | Topic: Environment

Since Albany did not approve Mayor Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan, the question about how to decrease congestion and finance public infrastructure still remains. According to Hope Cohen of the Manhattan Institute’s Center for Rethinking Development, the City can use existing enforcement mechanisms to achieve these goals. Cohen says the City should focus its efforts on raising the price of curbside parking through Muni-meters, limiting the number of people parking for free using “placards,” increasing traffic enforcement for box-blocking and double parking, and establishing taxi drop off and pick up locations.

Ferry Service Lowers Price in Hope of Inciting More Riders

Friday, April 11, 2008 | The Journal News - Lower Hudson Online | Topic: Transportation

New York Water Taxi is reducing fares on ferry routes from Haverstraw and Yonkers to Lower Manhattan to encourage ridership. As fares increase across the city on buses and trains and to use bridges and tunnels, the ferry service operators are hoping to entice more people to use their services. The goal overall is to encourage commuters not to drive their cars on Manhattan’s already congested streets.

Federal Official Criticizes Albany for Failure to Pass Congestion Pricing

Friday, April 11, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Transportation

At a New York City Building Congress meeting, James Simpson, the Federal Transit Administrator at the US Department of Transportation, was critical of lawmakers in Albany for not passing a congestion pricing plan which will cost the city millions of dollars in federal funding. Simpson, originally from Brooklyn and a former MTA Board Member, refuted the argument that congestion pricing was elitist. Simpson also offered his agency’s support for other important transit related projects in the city.

Bloomberg Advocates For Solar Power Panels

Tuesday, April 08, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Environment

In the wake of his loss at the Assembly over congestion pricing, Mayor Bloomberg announced a new PlaNYC 2030 initiative: solar panels. The Mayor said that the Department of Citywide Administrative Services will be putting out a Request for Proposals (RFP) for developers to enter into 20-year deals with the city to purchase, install and maintain solar panels on the rooftops of city-owned buildings. The goal of the proposal is to deliver two megawatts of power from the panels to the public buildings, which would double the city’s current solar electric capacity.

Congestion Pricing Plan Denied Vote in Albany

Tuesday, April 08, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Politics & Government

Assembly Democrats, facing a deadline to act on congestion pricing, opted not to bring the measure to the floor for a vote on Monday. After a closed door meeting, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver announced that his chamber would not vote on the plan to charge drivers a fee for entering certain areas of Manhattan because the opposition outweighed those who supported the plan. The congestion pricing plan proposed by Mayor Bloomberg about a year ago was one of many elements of the PlaNYC 2030 agenda that he is pushing. Without the approval of a congestion pricing plan, the city will lose $354 million in federal funds for transit projects. Mayor Bloomberg said the decision not to vote on the plan was a “special type of cowardice.”

Congestion Pricing Plan Faces Uncertain Support in Albany

Monday, April 07, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Politics & Government

Mayor Bloomberg’s plan for congestion pricing may be facing an uphill battle at the state legislature in Albany, where support for the plan is uncertain, and it may not even come to a vote on the floor. The vote must take place on Monday or the City will lose out on $354 million in federal funds, but legislators from both parties were unsure of its chances for success. At a press conference on Sunday, Mayor Bloomberg urged Albany to pass the plan, while warning that those legislators who oppose the plan will have to answer to their constituents when transportation services are reduced.

City Politicians Protest Congestion Pricing Plan

Sunday, April 06, 2008 | NY1 | Topic: Politics & Government

Local officials and business owners gathered together to protest the proposed congestion pricing plans on the day before Albany makes a decision about the proposal. Opponents of the plan argued that it will harm local business and questioned the intentions of the plan. Mayor Bloomberg remains steadfast that his proposal will be passed by the state legislature.

Mayor Holds Out Hope for Congestion Pricing

Sunday, April 06, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Transportation

During a public address in Bedford-Stuyvesant on Saturday, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg urged state lawmakers to put his congestion pricing plan to a vote before the deadline. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has said that the bill would probably not be brought to the floor of his chamber unless it has majority support from Democrats. The mayor said he was confident that the bill would be put to vote and pass, despite a growing sentiment to the contrary. Bloomberg pointed out that a number of changes have been made to the legislation already and an up or down vote would force lawmakers to be held accountable by their constituents.

Congestion Pricing Plan Suggested as a Pilot Program

Friday, April 04, 2008 | Crain's New York Business | Topic: Transportation

As state legislators face a Monday deadline to take action on the mayor’s congestion pricing plan for the city to be eligible for federal transit funds, some are suggesting introducing the bill as a 3-year pilot program in order to gain support. When Mayor Bloomberg initially introduced the plan, it was as a temporary program, but the Spitzer administration changed the plan to be long-term in order to fund large mass transit improvements like the 2nd Avenue subway line. According to Kathryn Wylde, president of the Partnership for New York City and a supporter of congestion pricing, changing the bill so that the pricing plan can be repealed if it is not working is crucial to its being passed. As a short-term program, the funds from the pricing scheme would fund short-term transit improvements rather than large capital projects.

Silver Will Support Congestion Pricing; Expects Plan to Lose

Friday, April 04, 2008 | Downtown Express | Topic: General

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has said that he is likely to support congestion pricing, although he thinks the plan will fail to garner enough votes in the Assembly. He will not lobby members of his caucus to support the plan. However, Silver says there is no way New York can mandate that the Port Authority contribute $1 billion to the plan since the Authority is a bi-state agency.

Port Authority Contribution to Congestion Pricing Plan Provides Another Roadblock for Mayor

Friday, April 04, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Finance

Opponents of Mayor Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan claim that the Port Authority’s $1 billion contribution to the plan is already part of its capital plan and is not a new source of money. The current legislation being considered says that New Jersey drivers will either pay an additional $3 to cross the Hudson River or the Port Authority, a bi-state agency, which must contribute $1 billion. Some believe that the money is currently in a fund to help regional transportation projects and using it in a congestion pricing plan will take it away from other projects. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver is expected to decide this weekend if his body will consider the measure on Monday, the deadline for millions in federal funding.

City Comptroller Proposes Changes to Congestion Plan

Thursday, April 03, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Transportation

Bill Thompson, the City’s comptroller, sent a letter to Governor Paterson and legislative leaders proposing thee amendments to the City's congestion pricing plan. The changes include the “elimination of a toll credit for drivers enter the central business district via a tolled facility,” mandating that a minimum of 77.5% of the revenue be used on city transportation, and permitting EZPass holders to come into the central business district for free after 10 A.M.

Congestion Pricing Plan Approved By City Council

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Transportation

The City Council passed a congestion pricing plan on Monday by a vote of 30-20. Now that the City Council has approved the plan, the legislation will go before the State Legislature. Governor Paterson and Senate Majority Leader Bruno have given support to the plan, but Assembly Speaker Silver has vowed to only bring up the measure once the state budget is complete. It remains unclear what will happen in Albany. The deadline for passage is April 7th before funds provided from the federal government are lost.

Bronx Riders Not Allowed on Manhattan Bound Metro-North Trains Originating in CT

Sunday, March 30, 2008 | Inner City Press | Topic: Transportation

During a public hearing on March 26, Metro-North Railroad president Peter Cannito was questioned about the agency’s policy of not allowing passengers onto some Manhattan-bound trains at the Fordham Road station in the Bronx – even if they hold tickets or passes for the trip. Cannito explained that the state of Connecticut pays for 65% of the costs of the New Haven line and has asked that passengers not be picked up for the last leg of trips on that line. This policy is of particular concern as the Mayor’s congestion pricing plan is considered.

Brooklyn Community Boards Vote “No” on Congestion Pricing

Friday, March 28, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Transportation

Brooklyn Community Boards 10 and 7 have voted against the Mayor’s congestion pricing plan, citing a “lack of information, as presently proposed.” Both community boards are located along the Gowanus Expressway and fear that parking in their neighborhoods may become a problem if the congestion pricing bill passes. Also, Community Board 14 has reservations about the residential parking permit plan. Meanwhile, Community Board 2, located in downtown Brooklyn, voted in favor of the bill and submitted recommendations that the two-way tolls on the Varrazano-Narrows Bridge be restored and that improvements be made to mass transit before congestion pricing goes into effect.

Former Staten Island Councilman Supports Congestion Pricing Plan

Thursday, March 27, 2008 | | Topic: Transportation

State Senator Andrew Lanza has come out in support of Mayor Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan. Lanza, a former City Councilmember from Staten Island, so far is the only politician from the Island to be in favor of the plan. City Councilmembers James Oddo and Vincent Ignizio currently oppose the plan because they believe public transportation in Staten Island is not sufficient to replace driving into Manhattan. Lanza and Bloomberg’s staff are hoping to persuade the two councilmembers before the April 7 deadline approaches.

CB10 Wants More Information on Congestion Pricing Plan

Thursday, March 27, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Transportation

Community Board 10, which consists of the Bay Ridge and Dyker Heights neighborhoods, did not approve the congestion pricing plan at a meeting on Monday. The Board says it rejected the plan due to a “lack of information, as presently proposed.” Concilmember Vincent Gentile voted in favor of the plan but claims that he had been told that if he voted against the plan, proposed projects in his jurisdictions may not be realized. He and other community members are concerned over how much money will be designated for transportation improvements in the area since the City has not been given specific figures.

City Planning Requires Planting Trees and Prohibits Paving Yards

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 | SILive.com | Topic: Environment

The City Planning Commission approved two PlaNYC 2030 sustainability initiatives: mandatory tree-planting for any new development or major addition and a prohibition on paving front yards. The tree-planting plan will lead to nearly 10,000 trees being planted in the city each year. The Commission said that green spaces such as front yards do a better job dealing with storm water than paved areas. The City Council must still approve these initiatives, and has until May 13 to do so.

City Council Hears Testimony on Congestion Pricing

Tuesday, March 25, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Transportation

Mayor Bloomberg, Department of Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan and other congestion pricing advocates are making a final push to garner enough support from the City Council to pass a congestion pricing plan by April 7th, the deadline before federal funds promised for mass transit are lost. Giving testimony before the City Council, Commissioner Sadik-Khan explained the purpose of residential parking permits while ruling out exemptions from paying the $8 fee for certain groups. A Quinnipiac University poll recently released said that nearly 2 out of 3 New Yorkers support the plan. Speaker Christine Quinn sees this as an opportunity to expand mass transit for New York City.

Paterson Supports Congestion Pricing Plan

Friday, March 21, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Transportation

New York Governor David Paterson announced his support for New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan on Friday. The announcement came after a “closed door” meeting between the mayor and the governor at City Hall on Wednesday. While the governor’s endorsement does not guarantee that the bill will be passed, advocates for congestion pricing applauded the governor’s position of support.

Elected Officials Want Transit Projects in Exchange for Congestion Pricing Support

Friday, March 21, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Transportation

Some City Council members remain uncommitted on Mayor Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan until they get assurances that certain transit projects in their districts will be included in the enhanced services pledged. Some speculate that Bloomberg has won over support from many by endorsing a residential parking permit system and by including a fund for transportation improvements. A key issue that remains for many lawmakers is how New Jersey drivers will be charged.

Bloomberg Makes Congestion Pricing Push in the Bronx

Thursday, March 20, 2008 | NY1 | Topic: Transportation

Mayor Bloomberg announced a new express bus route from the Throgs Neck in the Bronx to Lower Manhattan that is contingent on congestion pricing passing before April 7th. Funding for the bus route and many others across the city would come from $354 million that the federal government has pledged to New York City if it approves a congestion pricing plan. As the deadline looms, opposition in the State legislature remains and Governor Patterson has yet to commit to congestion pricing.

Councilmembers Push to Give Power to Community-Based Planning

Thursday, March 13, 2008 | Gotham Gazette | Topic: Politics & Government

Several council members and community boards are campaigning to adopt legislation that will give 197-a plans legal authority for their community planning process. Currently, 197a plans are only an advisory tool for development and can be easily overridden by competing development plans. Some worry that if the bill is passed, community based planning would stifle citywide services.

Mayor and Transportation Commissioner Endorse Residential Permits

Thursday, March 13, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Transportation

In response to community concern that congestion pricing could turn certain neighborhoods into “park-and-rides,” Mayor Bloomberg and Transportation Commissioner, Janette Sadik-Khan, announced their support of a residential permit parking plan. The plan would give residents of affected neighborhoods stickers to park in resident-only parking places. Bloomberg and Sadik-Khan hope to include this plan in the congestion pricing legislation, which requires approval by March 31, 2008.

Assembly Speaker Warms to Congestion Pricing

Friday, March 07, 2008 | Downtown Express | Topic: General

Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver is now somewhat supportive of the idea of congestion pricing. The Speaker has said that he will not try to convince lawmakers to support the plan, however. The City Council must vote on the plan before it goes to the Legislature.

MTA Chief Discusses Transit Issues at State of the MTA

Tuesday, March 04, 2008 | Metro New York | Topic: Transportation

Eliot Sander, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), spoke about the future of the MTA and transit in New York City at the first annual “State of the MTA” address. Sander highlighted the progress of the 2nd Avenue Subway and said that revenue from congestion pricing was a “critical piece” in planning for the future of transit operations in the city.

Lobbying Continues as Deadline Looms for Congestion Pricing

Tuesday, March 04, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Transportation

Mayor Bloomberg and Governor Spitzer are trying to broker an agreement with state legislators and City Council members on congestion pricing before March 31 so they don’t lose $350 million in federal funding promised to help pay for the plan. According to some, the agreement could include a litany of issues unrelated to transportation in an effort to get votes from lawmakers. Some believe that the greatest challenge to overcome is the Democrats in the Assembly, led by Speaker Sheldon Silver. Silver himself has a slew of issues that he would like to see included before he is willing to offer support.

Asthma Rates at Heart of Congestion Pricing Debate in the Bronx

Tuesday, March 04, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Environment

As the debate over congestion pricing heads to Albany for consideration by the State Legislature, advocates and opponents of the plans continue to debate the health impacts on Bronx residents if the plan is implemented. Some community members in the Bronx, especially in the South Bronx where asthma rates are particularly high, are concerned that limiting car traffic in Manhattan will encourage drivers to park in the Bronx and take the subway or bus in, ultimately bringing more cars onto the roads of the outer boroughs. Congestion pricing advocates say that claims that traffic will increase in the outer boroughs is empirically not true.

More Open Space to Come to the Bronx, Says Parks Commissioner

Tuesday, February 12, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Environment

Adrian Benepe, Commissioner of the Parks and Recreation Department, says that the Bronx is slated to get new open space and parklands under Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC 2030 plan. According to Benepe, his agency is committed to spending nearly $600 million over the next five years to finish ongoing parks projects and create new community open spaces as well. Benepe also said that development around Yankee Stadium has not compromised any of the parkland for the Bronx and claims that acres of parkland are being lost is factually untrue. He asserts that there will actually be a net increase in 5.28 acres of new park space that will include new baseball fields, basketball and handball courts, other recreational space and waterfront access. Some parks groups, including the NYC Park Advocates, have said that the stadium will provide a net decrease in parkland of about 4 acres.

Mixed Support for Congestion Pricing From Leaders Downtown

Friday, February 08, 2008 | Downtown Express | Topic: Transportation

Elected officials representing areas of downtown Manhattan are mixed in their support of congestion pricing. Most officials have a few key concerns that they are hoping to see changed before a final version of congestion pricing is decided upon. Facing a federal government deadline of March 31st in order to receive federal funding, concessions must be made in order to work out an amenable deal. A major concern for lawmakers representing downtown districts was the lack of an additional fee for drivers using the Holland Tunnel to enter Lower Manhattan. Since the Port Authority is expected to raise the rush hour toll to $8 next month, those drivers would receive a credit for the toll they made and not be charged additionally for entering the congestion zone.

Panel Recommends a Plan to Reduce Congestion

Friday, February 01, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Transportation

The State Commission charged with developing a suitable congestion pricing plan for New York City has agreed to a plan that is similar to Mayor Bloomberg’s plan but lowers the northern boundary to 60th Street and eliminates charges to drivers who begin their trip within the congestion zone. The plan now faces a tough legislative path – it needs to be approved by the City Council and then the New York State Legislature. The two Commission members that voted against the plan are members of the state Assembly. A key element of the plan will be showing how the increased revenue will be used to improve transit operations. In order for the city to secure $350 million for mass transit improvements from the federal government, a congestion pricing plan must be finalized by March 31st.

Members of the Assembly Voice Opposition to Congestion Pricing Plan

Thursday, January 31, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Transportation

Democratic Assembly members voiced concern about the proposed congestion pricing plan to the state traffic commission panel chairman, Marc Shaw, only days before the commission is expected to recommend the proposal. Shaw received a letter signed by 16 of the 18 members of the Queens Assembly delegation opposing the plan. The main concerns relate to the plan’s pricing structure and how the revenue would be spent.

Ferry Service Dwindling Despite PlaNYC Efforts

Saturday, January 26, 2008 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Transportation

Although Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC 2030 plans call for an expanded ferry system into Manhattan, two ferry routes connecting parts of Brooklyn to Lower Manhattan have recently closed down. At the end of last year, service was suspended between Williamsburg and Fulton Landing and Lower Manhattan. Service from Sunset Park has also recently been suspended because of lack of riders and high fuel costs. Some elected officials are urging city subsidies to keep the ferry service running.

Commission Expected to Endorse a Smaller Version of Mayor’s Congestion Plan

Friday, January 25, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Transportation

The State Commission tasked with evaluating plans for congestion pricing is expected to support a proposal that is similar to the one put forth by Mayor Bloomberg. The Commission is expected to lower the northern boundary to 60th Street, from 86th Street, and will eliminate charges for drivers whose trips remain within the zoned area. The Commission’s modified version is expected to raise $500 million a year in revenue and will reduce the need for cameras to enforce the rules. It is also expected that the Commission’s recommendations will include tolls for the East River bridges. The final Commission meeting will be held next week.

Some Staten Islanders Want More for Mass Transit

Friday, January 25, 2008 | SILive.com | Topic: Finance

At a hearing on congestion pricing in Staten Island, few residents came to speak about the proposed plan. According to the Mayor’s plan, drivers coming from Staten Island into Manhattan will have the toll they pay to cross the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge or the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel deducted from the fee to enter the central zone. Some residents were disheartened that not enough congestion pricing revenue would be used for mass transit efforts in Staten Island. As the plan currently stands, revenues from congestion pricing would be used for expanded bus service and further study and development of the North Shore Rail Line. The State Legislature and City Council must vote on a plan by the end of March.

Concerns about Revenues from Congestion Pricing

Monday, January 14, 2008 | New York Post | Topic: Transportation

Some opponents of congestion pricing plans are raising concerns that new revenue generated from the plan will not be guaranteed for mass transit. These critics believe that even if the new profits were specifically used for mass transit, other funding sources for transit projects would be cut.

Battle Set for Ridgewood Reservoir

Sunday, January 13, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Waterfront

The city’s Parks and Recreation Department is considering a $500 million restoration for the Ridgewood Reservoir that would include a bicycle path, open meadows and an environmental learning center as part of Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC 2030 plan. However, some environmentalists and local officials are concerned that the plans could disturb one of the only natural urban forests in New York City that is considered “highly significant for the biodiversity of New York City and the region.” The Parks Department views the area as a space for a mixed recreation similar to Central Park and Prospect Park. Ridgewood was an active water source for New York City until 1959 and a back up until 1989.

Senate Pushing New Congestion Plan

Monday, December 24, 2007 | AM New York | Topic: Transportation

The State Senate has introduced new legislation which would give lawmakers more control over congestion pricing. The bill provides for a 12-person panel to oversee congestion pricing in Manhattan. The city needs State approval of the legislation ahead of a federal deadline in order to be eligible for federal transportation grants. In spite of the deadline, it is unclear whether the Senate will consider the bill when it convenes on Monday. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has stated that a final decision will not be made by the Senate, and many are dismayed that federal grants will be forgone as a result

Congestion Pricing Will Pass; Most Likely Not the Mayor’s Initial Plan

Monday, December 17, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Transportation

Mayor Bloomberg’s plan for congestion pricing in Manhattan will most likely change drastically between now and March 31st when the City Council and the State Legislature is required to make final approval of a plan. However, most indicate that once the City Council agrees to some sort of plan next year, the state Legislature and the Governor will follow suit and endorse it. Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has struck down many of Bloomberg’s initiatives including a new stadium on the West Side and a sanitation plan. However, it is expected that Silver will support a congestion pricing plan, albeit vastly different than the one initially proposed by the Mayor.

Ferries Could Help Reduce Carbon Emissions for City’s PlaNYC Goals

Monday, December 17, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Environment

Legislation has been introduced by the City Council that would require all ferries to use ultra low sulfur diesel fuel to reduce their carbon emissions. The new legislation fits into prior legislation that was recently passed, setting a target of 30% emissions reductions by 2030. Cost estimates for converting the ferries for new fuel use are not known yet.

NYCHA Partners With HUD, Clinton to Reduce Greenhouse Gases

Friday, December 07, 2007 | Crain's New York Business | Topic: Environment

Mayor Bloomberg and former President Bill Clinton announced a partnership between the New York City Housing Authority the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Clinton Climate Initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the City’s public housing. Through the partnership, the City will be able to purchase clean, energy-efficient technologies at reduced prices. The initiative will save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from public housing. The new partnership is part of the Mayor’s PlaNYC 2030 program.

Mayor Promotes Congestion Pricing Plan over MTA’s Fare Hike

Wednesday, December 05, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Finance

Mayor Bloomberg has criticized the MTA for its proposed fare hike. While the Mayor believes it is critical that mass transit be improved, he maintains that congestion pricing is the better solution. Opponents of this plan claim congestion pricing will raise less money than Mayor Bloomberg anticipates.

Major Changes to Bloomberg’s Congestion Pricing Plan A Possibility

Monday, December 03, 2007 | Crain's New York Business | Topic: General

The Commission tasked with evaluating Mayor Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan is considering implementing significant changes that will reduce congestion and meet the satisfaction of the public without stifling the economy. The Commission is considering lowering the northern boundary of the congestion zone from 86th Street to 60th Street. Other possibilities for change include significantly increasing the price of on-street parking and charging a tax for using a parking garage. There are still concerns for how to properly charge drivers coming from suburban areas in New Jersey and Long Island. The Commission is mandated to complete its evaluation and recommendations by January 31st.

Idea of Resident Parking Permits Being Explored

Saturday, December 01, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Transportation

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is undertaking an initiative to explore the potential of a residential parking permit system to mitigate effects of a possible congestion pricing plan. Some believe that congestion pricing stands to worsen parking problems in Brooklyn neighborhoods as drivers could use the borough to park their cars and take the subway into Manhattan. While other major cities have instituted parking permits plans, New York has maintained its free parking policy for decades. The DOT will be holding several hearings on the topic. Cost estimates for the parking permit plan have not been released.

City Council Passed a Bill to Reduce Greenhouse Gases

Thursday, November 29, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Environment

In efforts to support Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC 2030, the City Council passed a bill yesterday to decrease the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted by city government buildings by 30 percent. With city government setting the example, bill sponsors hope that the private sector will follow.

Birdwatchers Object to City’s Plan for Ridgewood Reservoir

Sunday, November 25, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Environment

Some area birders are objecting to Bloomberg’s plan to convert parts of the Ridgewood Reservoir in Highland Park into an “active recreation center.” The reservoir, which was drained in 1989, has grown into a dense forest that serves as a popular bird sanctuary. The proposal is part of PlaNYC 2030, although, some of the birders think that tearing down trees in order to develop recreational facilities is counterintuitive. The Parks Commissioner says that although money has been allocated for Highland Park, design plans are not final.

City Funding Green Affordable Housing

Thursday, November 15, 2007 | Queens Ledger | Topic: Environment

The city has given $9 million to Enterprise Community Investment for their Green Communities Initiative. The 3-year grant will be used by Enterprise to update ventilation, insulation, and water usage within thousands of low income, publicly subsidized buildings throughout the city. The grant was announced during a city forum on environmental sustainability.

DOT to Hold Public Workshops on Congestion Pricing

Wednesday, November 14, 2007 | StreetsBlog | Topic: General

The NYC Department of Transportation will hold workshops in seven neighborhoods in the next few months. The DOT plans to use these workshops as a forum to discuss the impact of congestion pricing on neighborhoods and to seek public input in developing citywide parking solutions.

Traffic Coalition Holds Sixth Congestion Pricing Hearing

Friday, November 02, 2007 | StreetsBlog | Topic: Transportation

The New York City Traffic Congestion Mitigation Commission, a coalition of politicians and activists, held the 6th of a series of local hearings on the proposed congestion traffic toll. Most Brooklyn politicians came out against Mayor Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan, worrying that it would turn their borough into a parking lot for Manhattan. The politicians called for other alternatives, including improved bus and subway service, HOV lanes, and more water taxis. Some residents and community organizations testified in support of the congestion pricing plan, citing concerns about pollution and global warming. The Commission will hold one further hearing on the issue.

Another Alternative to Congestion Pricing Proposed

Friday, November 02, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Transportation

At a Brooklyn hearing on Mayor Bloomberg’s Congestion Pricing plan, Councilmember Louis Fidler presented a counter plan that he has been working on since June. Fidler, who represents an area in Brooklyn with no subway stations, has long been opposed to the Mayor’s plan. Fidler’s alternative includes building three new bridges into Manhattan, increased usage of hydrogen vehicles, and a payroll tax on businesses in Manhattan and surrounding counties. One member of the panel created to study Congestion Pricing applauded Fidler for presenting a workable plan that can be used as a comparison to the Mayor’s plan.

Bloomberg Administration Says Congestion Pricing Plan to Improve Bronx Public Transportation

Wednesday, October 31, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Transportation

City officials announced at a press conference that Mayor Bloomberg's congestion pricing plan would help improve public transportation in the Bronx. The city expects to be able to increase the service on the No. 1 subway line, add to the number of bus lines going into Manhattan, and create more Metro-North stops. Critics worry that the Mayor’s plan will worsen congestion in the Bronx, while proponents believe these public transportation improvements will reduce Bronx traffic.

The Many Facets of the Mayor's 2030 Plan

Monday, October 29, 2007 | Newsday.com | Topic: Politics & Government

Although congestion pricing has received a great share of coverage of Mayor Bloomberg’s 2030 strategic plan, other elements have gone "overlooked." For example, the Mayor has proposed using ribbed mussel beds to help purify Jamaica Bay. Additionally, Bloomberg has suggested the construction of new housing units on platforms over the Brooklyn -Queens Expressway.

Concerns from Lawmakers Vary On Congestion Plan

Friday, October 26, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Transportation

At a public hearing on Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan, various lawmakers expressed concerns with different aspects of the Mayor’s plan. Complaints about the current public transportation system and application of the fee for driving through the tunnels were voiced. Also, some lawmakers advocated that people with disabilities should be exempt from the plan. Many of these concerns will have to be addressed before the policy can go forward.

Bloomberg: “Significant” Progress on PlaNYC Environmental Blueprint

Tuesday, October 23, 2007 | Newsday.com | Topic: Environment

Mayor Bloomberg has announced that the City has made "significant" progress on his proposed "environmental blueprint," as part of the PlaNYC 2030 program. Opponents argue that the most significant of Bloomberg's environmental proposals, such as the congestion pricing plan, are contingent upon state approval. Mayoral aides claim that the state legislature's decision to convene a congestion pricing commission is a "victory."

School Playgrounds Get Rehabbed & Extended Hours Under PlaNYC

Tuesday, October 23, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: General

Under Mayor Bloomberg's PlaNYC 2030 program, the city has teamed up with the conservation group Trust for Public Land to improve public school playgrounds. 290 city school playgrounds will be open for extended hours year-round and on weekends, and 185 of these will be renovated. The mayor has committed $111 million in capital funding to this project.

Bloomberg Appoints Public Housing Environmental Coordinator

Monday, October 22, 2007 | City Limits Weekly | Topic: Environment

As part of PlaNYC, Mayor Bloomberg has appointed NYCHA Commissioner Margarita Lopez as the Authority’s environmental coordinator. Ms. Lopez will be responsible for implementing ways to improve the environmental impact of NYCHA properties. As the country's second largest landowner, NYCHA will serve as a model for other developers. NYCHA’s sustainability efforts have received mixed responses from NYCHA residents.

Congestion Pricing Revenues Questioned

Monday, October 22, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Transportation

Cost estimates for Mayor Bloomberg's congestion pricing initiative are only rough estimates, according to a special probe done by The Daily News. While Bloomberg hopes that revenue for mass transit from the plan will be $390 million per year, some in the industry believe that costs for part of the plan have been underestimated. Other experts contend that while the city's current estimates are infeasible, congestion pricing could be profitable. Mayoral aides say that the main point of congestion pricing is not to raise revenue, but to reduce the number of cars in Manhattan.

Alternative to Congestion Pricing Proposed

Friday, October 12, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Transportation

Keep NYC Congestion Tax Free, a group in opposition to Mayor Bloomberg's congestion pricing plan has provided an alternative plan that, according to their report, will more effectively reduce traffic in Manhattan than the Mayor's plan. The alternative proposes an increase in the number and price of parking meters to decrease the number of idling cars on Manhattan’s streets. The study offers no cost estimate for implementing the offered proposals. A Commission charged with reviewing the Mayor's plan along with alternatives is required to make recommendations to the Legislature by January 2008.

DCP Announces Landscaping Requirements For Parking Lots

Wednesday, October 10, 2007 | Queens Gazette | Topic: Urban Design & Architecture

In conjunction with Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC 2030 program, the Department of City Planning has put forth criteria for landscaping that will only apply to future open parking areas that have at least 18 spaces or are 6,000 square feet. The new standards set lot specifications and will require landowners to plant street trees and provide bicycle parking spaces. DCP hopes the changes will help mitigate excess storm water runoff.

Congestion Pricing Plan Estimated to Cost $767 Million

Monday, October 08, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Transportation

Congestion pricing, one of Mayor Bloomberg's PlaNYC 2030 initiatives, is estimated to cost $767 million over the next five years according to a new report released by the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA). The funding would be needed to upgrade and enhance the mass transit systems and to make significant capital improvements needed to accommodate the expected growth of new riders. The MTA included in its report that once the plan goes into effect, some of the revenues would be used to pay for system improvements.

City Planning Proposal Seeks More Green Space in Lawns

Friday, October 05, 2007 | Queens Tribune | Topic: Environment

The Department of City Planning announced a new zoning proposal that would require greater green space in newly constructed front yards. Depending on the size of the lot, the proposed regulation calls for between 20 and 50 percent of front yards to be unpaved. Plan proponents argue that green lawns absorb rainfall and prevent flooding from overburdened sewer systems. Plan opponents argue that the city is using aesthetic criteria to excessively regulate private property.

PlaNYC Component May Require Homeowners to Plant Own Trees

Friday, October 05, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Environment

The city’s Department of Planning has proposed a plan that will require homeowners and other property owners that develop new property to plant trees on their sites. Under the proposed plan ,new trees must be planted every 25 feet on property that faces the street. Once planted, the trees would be maintained by the city. Currently, the Department of Parks and Recreation plants trees for free upon request, however, there is a long lag time because of high demand for new trees. The plan, proposed as part of Mayor Bloomberg’s goal for more trees in the city by 2030, has received mixed reviews.

Ocean Breeze Park Will be Home to New Public Athletic Facilities

Friday, September 28, 2007 | Staten Island Advance | Topic: Environment

Design plans for an indoor track and field facility, baseball and softball fields, and other public spaces were unveiled by the city’s Park Department for Ocean Breeze Park in Staten Island. Talks about building a baseball academy on the 110-acre park had originally been explored. Mayor Bloomberg’s pledge of $70 million, which will be financed out of his plaNYC2030 initiative, makes the newly proposed use of the public space more viable. Only about 10 acres can be developed because of wetlands. An environmental assessment is required before any design plans can go forward.

Brooklyn Neighborhood Opposes Transportation Initiatives in PlaNYC

Thursday, September 27, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Transportation

At a community meeting in Bay Ridge, some residents and elected officials attacked Mayor Bloomberg’s transportation initiatives in PlaNYC. Those upset with the congestion pricing plan contend that Brooklyn already has poor public transit options that make it difficult to commute to Manhattan. Some elected officials in the area are advocating for the reinstatement of ferry service to the Pier at 69th Street. This would be in addition to ferry service already provided to 38th Street.

Biker and Pedestrian Friendly Improvements on 9th Avenue

Monday, September 24, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Transportation

The city’s Department of Transportation unveiled plans for 9th Avenue from 16th Street to 23rd Street to promote safety for pedestrians and bikers. The city will create a bike lane next to the sidewalk that is protected by both a buffer area and a parking lane. This arrangement will also create the opportunity for three lanes of forward moving traffic. Also, the city will create a “pedestrian refuge” in the major crosswalks to shorten the distance needed to walk across the street. City Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan called the plan a “sneak peek at the future streets of New York.”

New Zoning Accommodates Mayor’s Bicycle Vision

Tuesday, September 04, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Politics & Government

Mayor Bloomberg’s long term planning initiative calls for 1,800 new miles of bike paths and lanes to combat traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions. By the end of 2007 alone, the city will increase its amount of bicycle lanes by 50 miles. As bicycle rider ship and lanes have increased, parking for bicycles has declined. In response, many new zoning requirements in areas like Long Island City and Downtown Brooklyn have required commercial properties to include space for bicycle parking. City officials are interested in creating a law that would make such an accommodation a requirement in commercial zoning.

Bloomberg Press Release Names Congestion Pricing Panel

Tuesday, August 21, 2007 | | Topic: Politics & Government

A press release from Mayor Bloomberg’s panel appointed a 17 member congestion pricing panel. The panel is made up of 3 Bloomberg appointees, 3 Spitzer appointees, 3 City Council appointees, 3 appointees from Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno, 3 appointees from Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, 1 appointee from Senate Minority Leader Malcolm Smith and 1 appointee from Assembly Minority Leader Jim Tedisco.

2 Parks in Queens Receive Funding Boost

Monday, August 20, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Environment

Highland Park and Far Rockaway, two parks in Queens, will receive significant funding boosts as part of the city’s ongoing PlaNYC initiative. Highland Park is slated to receive $46 million in order to improve the site’s amenities for passive recreation. $36 million for Far Rockaway is intended to improve uses like beach access and parking that have been neglected in the past. The city’s Parks Department is currently conducting citizen surveys.

Congestion Pricing Still Faces Obstacles

Wednesday, August 15, 2007 | Metro New York | Topic: Transportation

While Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan has now been approved for federal funding, it still faces roadblocks at the state and local level. In order to be implemented, the state Legislature must approve the plan by March 2008. The plan must also be approved by New York City Council and a 17-member commission specifically created to study traffic remedies in response to the proposal.

Federal Government Pledges Funds for Congestion Pricing

Tuesday, August 14, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Politics & Government

The federal Department of Transportation has agreed to provide funding for Mayor Bloomberg's controversial congestion pricing proposal contingent upon the plan's approval by the state. The federal government has $1.1 billion available for five cities testing pilot programs to combat traffic. Some observers believe that the promise of federal monies will boost the chances that the city's plan will be approved. After contentious debate, Bloomberg's congestion proposal is now under consideration by a 17-member commission entrusted with recommending the most viable traffic reduction plan by January 31, 2008. Both the Legislature and the City Council will vote on the measure by March 31, 2008. While the exact amount of the federal contribution is unknown, the figure by law must be greater than $200 million for the commission to continue their review.

Fate of Congestion Pricing on 17-Member Commission

Saturday, July 21, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Politics & Government

Mayor Bloomberg, Governor Spitzer, and the leaders of both houses of the state legislature reached a decision in private negotiations to form at 17-member commission to formulate a final congestion pricing plan that will be submitted to the City Council, State Assembly, State Senate, and U.S. Department of Transportation for final approval. The New York Times reports that the commission is likely to approve a version of the mayor's proposal, given that 13 members support some form of congestion pricing.

Congestion Pricing Plan Survives

Friday, July 20, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Politics & Government

Mayor Bloomberg and state officials reached an agreement this week that will keep the mayor's congestion pricing plan in the running for federal money only days after the plan seemed destined to fail. While the agreement ultimately leaves the decision to charge tolls on drivers to the state legislature, the plan permits a 17-member panel to consider the plan as well as allowing the city to install infrastructure that may be used in the future to implement the tolls. Mayor Bloomberg has the considerable task of encouraging city council members and state legislators to support his plan.

Bloomberg’s Congestion Pricing Plan Fails

Tuesday, July 17, 2007 | ABC News | Topic: Transportation

Despite last-minute efforts by Mayor Bloomberg, his congestion plan was not voted on by Monday, July 16, the deadline for approval. The city’s congestion problem still remains an issue that must be dealt with.

Making Energy Efficiency a Reality

Sunday, July 15, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Environment

Mayor Bloomberg’s ambitious plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions 30% by 2030 will require a coordinated effort to make the city’s buildings more energy efficient. Currently, 80% of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions derive from energy use in buildings. While the mayor’s plan calls for stricter construction standards for new building structures, nearly 85% of standing buildings will remain in 2030. Immediate steps can increase energy efficiency, including installation of energy-efficient light bulbs and boilers.

Senate Floats Congestion Pricing Proposal with More State Control

Saturday, July 14, 2007 | New York Newsday | Topic: Politics & Government

The state Senate submitted a bill on Friday that would amend Mayor Bloomberg’s congestion pricing proposal by creating a 12-member panel that would determine the details of the mayor’s plan. The panel, in conjunction with the city, would have to finalize a plan for the legislature’s consideration by December 31, 2007. Bloomberg has already expressed frustration with the state legislature’s decision to delay final vote on congestion pricing, potentially disqualifying the city for $500 million in federal funds.

Federal Money On the Line for Bloomberg’s Traffic Plan

Saturday, July 14, 2007 | New York Newsday | Topic: Politics & Government

New York State Senate Leader Joseph Bruno says that New York State has until Monday to agree to Mayor Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan in order to receive $500 million in federal funds for such a pilot program. The U.S. Department of Transportation is in the process of selecting three cities that will implement innovative new traffic plans to reduce congestion and pollution. While the state legislature has yet to endorse the mayor’s proposal, both Governor Spitzer and Leader Bruno have expressed support. Some liken current opposition to Bloomberg’s plan to the criticism that London politicians received when they introduced a similar proposal in 2002.

Legislative Deal for Congestion Pricing is Under Consideration

Wednesday, July 11, 2007 | Crain's New York Business | Topic: Transportation

Members of the State legislature are considering approving Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan, but only as part of a deal that would provide a pay increase for lawmakers and may end Spitzer’s attempt to reform campaign financing. Approving congestion pricing would garner up to $530 million in federal funds to implement the program. State Senate and Assembly members as well as judges might get pay increases as part of the deal. However Governor Spitzer may have been counting on being able to veto pay raises to force through campaign finance reform.

Brodsky Releases Congestion Pricing Impact Report

Monday, July 09, 2007 | New York Press | Topic: Transportation

Westchester Assemblyman Richard Brodsky released his report today detailing the impacts that Mayor Bloomberg’s congestion pricing plan could have on suburban commuters and City residents. The report claims that the plan will only improve traffic speed by .6 miles per hour, and neglects public health and environmental impact concerns.

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