Quick Takeaways:
- Gov. Hochul says free buses could drain the MTA’s fare-hauling budget.
- Mamdani argues free buses would speed service and boost ridership.
- The plan’s future depends on state support, including the governor and the Legislature.
Hochul Questions Free Bus Feasibility
Gov. Kathy Hochul said she cannot patronize a free motorcoach system that dispatches indispensable fare revenue.
She says the MTA relies on bus and subway fares to wield surgery and stability.
Governor Will Door Loose to Targeted Help
Hochul suggested the Department of State could nevertheless make transit affordable for low-income riders.
She orders that New York can find ways to help those who need assistance the most.
Mamdani Campaigned on Fast and Free Buses
Zohran Mamdani built much of his campaign around free and faster buses.
He even highlighted system delays by taking a bus that arrived 25 minutes late during a press event.
Candidate Says NYC Buses Are Nation’s Slowest
Mamdani told reporters that New York has the slowest buses in the country.
He said buses move at eight miles per hour on average, which he called unacceptable.
Free Fares, Faster Boarding, More Service
Mamdani argued that removing fares speeds boarding and reduces bus stop delays.
He said free fares must come with more service and all-door boarding to cut dwell times.
Cost Estimate Reaches $800 Million a Year
His campaign projected the plan would cost $800 million annually.
They said higher corporate taxes and a tax on millionaires could fund the program.
Experts Say Hochul’s Support Is Essential
Transit experts said the plan needs help from the MTA, the Legislature, and the governor.
One analyst said Hochul’s opposition “makes success very difficult.”
Mamdani Takes Office in 2026
Mamdani won the Nov. 4 election, defeating Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa.
He will assume office on Jan. 1, 2026, but has not confirmed the next stride on the proposal.