March 31, 2008

For Immediate Release
Contact: Eron Shosteck
Phone: 202-218-7220

WASHINGTON, March 31 - The American Bus Association today applauded the precedent-setting action of New York officials in crafting a revised congestion pricing proposal that recognizes the critical role private intercity buses fulfill as a component of any transportation solution. The new bill treats all buses equitably and would exempt them from the proposed $8 daily rush-hour fee to enter Manhattan.

"We applaud the vision of New York's state leaders and the U.S. DOT in introducing a landmark bill that should ultimately serve as a model for other big cities fighting white-knuckled gridlock," said ABA President & CEO Peter Pantuso. "More than 1,000 private buses provide commuter service every day into Manhattan, bringing workers from outer boroughs and neighboring states. These and other motorcoaches - including charter, tour, and scheduled service -- provide the same benefits as any other bus, in that they take cars off of the roads, reduce energy consumption and slash emissions. With other cities pondering congestion pricing plans, New York has set an example to be emulated."

This draft legislation will be subject to changes in the New York State Senate and Assembly, and the New York City Council will have to vote on and approve a "home rule" measure indicating their acceptance of the plan.

"It's early in the process, but this is a critically important milestone in that New York City has clearly identified the value of motorcoaches in fighting gridlock, recognizing that each full coach takes up to 55 single-occupant autos off clogged roadways," Pantuso added. "With the recognition that we are a crucial component of the transportation network needed to fight gridlock now and in the future, this can only be characterized as a milestone shift in elevating awareness of our value to society on many different levels."

ABA is also working with the U.S. DOT and 29 other states considering similar legislation to ensure that private buses are exempt from any congestion pricing schemes.

The American Bus Association is the trade organization of the intercity bus industry with more than 1000 motorcoach owner and tour company members in the United States and Canada. Its members operate charter, tour, regular route, airport express, special operations and contract services. Another 2,600 members are travel and tourism organizations and suppliers of bus products and services who work in partnership with the North American motorcoach industry.