CMTA Chairman Touts Expansion: Says $17 Billion in Maintenance is Imperative

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Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chairman Peter S. Kalikow outlined the MTA’s five-year, $25 billion capital program during a sold-out New York Building Congress forum in September.

While Kalikow discussed the importance of major expansion projects, such as the Second Avenue Subway and East Side Access for Long Island Rail Road commuters, he noted that the bulk of the program, $17 billion, was earmarked for system maintenance and security upgrades, which he said are absolutely critical.

“We need to run hard just to stand still,” said Kalikow, adding that the system will begin to deteriorate if less than $17 billion is invested over the next five years to maintain a state of good repair. “We don't feel we have discretion on this.”

Regarding proposed expansion projects, including an extension of the number 7 subway line - to be paid for by New York City tax revenues - Kalikow noted that these ideas were on the drawing board as far back as the late 1960s. “We weren't ready for it then. They were nice in 1968. They are imperative today and we are now ready for it.”

While Kalikow noted the importance of these expansion projects, he also warned, “If doing
East Side Access and the Second Avenue Subway meant jeopardizing that $17 billion (for system maintenance), I’d drop both programs in a minute.”

Kalikow specifically took issue with some New York State legislators that see that the MTA capital program, which will run from 2005 through 2009, as too lavish. “It’s not too luxurious or lavish. It’s exactly what we need.”

In terms of funding the capital program, Kalikow noted that the previous five-year plan was paid for by the riders who put money in the fare box. This time around, Kalikow suggested that the City and State governments will need to contribute substantial dollars, although he noted that another fare hike was likely.

Legislators in Albany, he continued, need to recognize that the 12 downstate counties served by the MTA are the economic engine that runs all 62 counties in New York State. "Government has certain responsibilities, and this is one thing they should do,” Kalikow said.

Kalikow called on Building Congress members to continue to support mass transit and
infrastructure investment. “The Building Congress has been an important partner with us,” in the MTA’s continuing effort to improve the existing system and now in its effort to expand it.