Good morning, I’m Brian Fritsch, Associate Director for the Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA, PCAC.
Created by the New York State Legislature in 1981, PCAC serves as a voice for users of the MTA system in the development and implementation of policy, and to hold the MTA board and management accountable to riders.
PCAC is proud to have recently joined the Build Gateway Now Coalition in support of the Gateway Program, as it represents one of the most transformative infrastructure projects in the region. We were thrilled to see the historic Full Funding Grant Agreement for the Hudson Tunnel Project—which was particularly impressive due to setting a new standard for federal funding for a transit project—and have also been pleased to watch the progress of construction with the Portal North Bridge.
PCAC recognizes what a major impact the Gateway Program will have for New York residents West of the Hudson, especially after the Bergen Loop is constructed. A one-seat ride into Penn Station will be a game changer for Port Jervis and Pascack Valley line riders, who have some of the longest and tenuous commutes in the region.
Speaking of Penn Station, PCAC is also looking forward to more work being done to build upon the success of Moynihan Train Hall and the updated LIRR corridor. While the conditions at Penn have certainly improved, we recognize there is far more work to be done, both before and after Metro-North trains and riders begin traveling there.
Congrats to outgoing CEO Kris Kolluri and the rest of the GDC for all the progress you’ve made so far. We know the work being done by you will pay dividends for generations to come.
Thank you for the opportunity to testify today.