I am a resident of New York City, living with a disability that makes it difficult for me to use stairs. Due to my heart condition and the aftermath of a stroke, extensive walking or climbing stairs leaves me breathless and struggling. Like many others in this city, I am caught between the rock of congestion pricing and the hard place of unsafe public transportation.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is pushing us towards public transportation without ensuring  our safety. We are left with two choices - either pay the congestion pricing or risk assault on public transportation. This situation is particularly challenging for those already struggling to meet basic needs due to economic hardships.

New Yorkers are being forced to spend their limited resources on getting around because of these policies. It's an unjust burden that disproportionately affects low-income residents and those with disabilities like myself.

According to data from INRIX 2019 Global Traffic Scorecard, New York City ranks fourth globally in terms of traffic congestion costs per driver at $2,072 annually (source: INRIX). At the same time, crime rates on MTA subways have seen an uptick over recent years (source: NYPD).

We call upon the MTA and city officials to reconsider these policies that unfairly penalize citizens who simply need safe and affordable ways to get around their own city. We demand equity in our transit system – one that serves all its riders safely without causing financial strain.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fair transportation practices for all New Yorkers!