Mamdani’s Bus Promise Faces Hurdles

Just under 100 days into his tenure, New York’s Mayor Zoran Mamdani is grappling with the reality of unfulfilled commitments.

His administration has stated that the goal of implementing “free and fast” public buses for New Yorkers will not come to fruition this year.

The mayor had previously pledged to eliminate bus fares, asserting that this would enhance safety on public transportation. He explained, “Collecting fares occurs inside the bus, therefore, removing the fare box could create a safer environment for bus drivers and passengers alike.”

In a past interview, he even mentioned how various aspects of bus operations are interlinked with the removal of fares.

However, when queried about the feasibility of this commitment in light of the New York State Legislature’s failure to allocate funding in the current budget, Mamdani appeared evasive. “Both chambers have included supportive language for reinstating the free bus pilot program, which is uplifting and part of ongoing budget discussions,” he remarked. His optimism was tempered by a commitment to keep pursuing this goal through negotiations, targeting 2026 as a possible start.

In response, economist Carol Ross conveyed skepticism in a message, comparing Mamdani’s efforts to unrealistic promises made by a class president, saying, “The fact that he can’t deliver on a single stupid promise is not at all surprising.”

Even prior to his inauguration, many New Yorkers, including bus drivers, expressed doubts regarding the viability of his proposals.

Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul openly stated her opposition to the plan, citing financial concerns surrounding the reliance on fare income for the transport system. “We can’t take away funds from a system that depends on bus and subway fares,” she remarked.