MAYOR DE BLASIO MEETING WITH NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT PRESIDENT ANDY BYFORD

  This afternoon, Mayor Bill de Blasio met with New York City Transit President Andy Byford. The 90-minute meeting was held at City Hall. The meeting focused largely on how the City and MTA can continue to work together to expand bus service, implement the L train shutdown mitigation plan, and improve accessibility. The Mayor and Transit President agreed to establish a joint working group tasked with improving collaboration, alongside quarterly meetings between the Mayor and Mr. Byford.  Mayor de Blasio renewed his demand for New York City investment to go toward New York City transit, and for a long-term revenue source paid for by a tax on New York City's wealthiest residents. Mr. Byford discussed the need to fully fund his plan, and emphasized that he was asking all elected officials to help him find a sustainable funding source. The Mayor pledged his support for Mr. Byford and his “Fast Forward” plan, before wishing the Transit President success in his challenging mission.