Weiner Takes the High Road, Markowitz Offers His 'Input' on Congestion Pricing
Anthony Weiner, who opposed congestion pricing before Michael Bloomberg officially unveiled it, is (again!) taking the high road today.
Weiner, a likely mayoral candidate, released a statement saying, "Today may close a chapter on congestion pricing, but hopefully not the book on improving New York City's environment, reducing congestion, and raising additional revenue for mass transit. While the sides were clearly drawn, it's now time to come together to find solutions to these important challenges.”
Marty Markowitz, who might also run for mayor, was a less emphatic opponent. In the wake of its near-certain failure, the characteristically outspoken Brooklyn borough president links himself to Bloomberg and notes that he had several proposals that, he says, would have made the plan better:
“Mayor Bloomberg loves this city just as I do, and he is to be commended for his vision and courage in taking on big issues. That’s why I want to offer him and the Commission my full cooperation and input as we move forward and work together on a congestion pricing plan that is fair to everyone. Whether it’s through an increase in the gasoline tax or other creative ideas, there has to be a more equitable plan that accomplishes our shared goals of cleaner air, reduced congestion and additional revenue for mass transit improvements.
"I personally made several recommendations aimed at making this proposal better but, frankly, the plan ultimately put forward would have unfairly penalized motorists from outside Manhattan, especially drivers forced to travel to the Central Business District for medical reasons and small businesspeople that depend on their vehicles for their livelihood. I look forward to more dialogue on this issue, and remain confident we can agree on a plan that is fair to all New Yorkers.”
Another great idea from Mr. Markowitz: Like we don't pay enough for gas right now...he wants to raise the gas tax...brilliant idea. Put this with the idea he wants to build an amphitheater on Asser Levy park, the only green space in the Brighton Beach/ Coney Island area where senoir citizne can sit on benches, dogs can run with their owners, kids play with their friends. Any other good ideas Marty?
weiner got lucky, if CP went through, he would have been toast
Sorry guys. You are opponents.
And there it makes absolutely no sense for those to supported CP to work together with anyone. They proposed having some people, those with a privilege, make a sacrifice to head off the upcoming fiscal collapse of the transit system. It is easy to be against such sacrifices.
We don't have to "come together" Mr. Weiner. You need to get the $billions from Washington you promised, without sacrificing anything else, and you need to do it now.
SHOW ME THE MONEY!
If Mrs. Markowitz had stolen more of those Murakami placemats from the Brooklyn Museum, they could have auctioned them on eBay to raise money for mass transit.