Walder Confirmed
September 10th, 2009
Jay Walder was confirmed by the Senate today as chairman of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority in a vote of 47-13. But first he received an earful from both sides of the aisle about the organization he will now head.
All the votes against Walder came from Republicans, who blasted the MTA for its accounting practices, its funding structure and the service it provides to outlying areas. Most, however, took the time to praise Walder’s resume.
Some Democrats apologized to Walder. “It’s not you; its us.” Sen. Diane Savino told Walder, “I’m not going to hold you responsible for mistakes you haven’t made.” But Savino and other Democrats warned Walder that he would face great scrutiny.
Some were surprised to see that the Democratic leadership was able to deliver a unified vote on the issue. The MTA has been a sensitive issue in the Democratic conference all year, and many worry that strife left over from the coup might leave the Democrats impotent and divided in general. But they were together for this one.
And that made Gov. David Paterson happy. His office released this statement celebrating the confirmation:
I am pleased that the New York State Senate today confirmed Jay Walder as the new Chairman and CEO of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). As a world-renowned transportation expert, he has the knowledge and vision needed to move the MTA into the 21st century. As a native New Yorker and transit-user, Jay has a passengers appreciation for the subway, bus and rail services and understands that the long-term stability of this system is critical to the well-being of the metropolitan area.
I am confident that Jay will shepherd the MTA into a new era one that benefits all riders, whether in the Hudson Valley, the five boroughs or on Long Island. I applaud this confirmation and look forward to working with Jay as we strive to make the MTA more efficient, transparent and accountable.
By David King on September 10, 2009, 7:04 pmIn category: Albany, Eye on Albany, Transportation | No Comments »



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