A Journey To Modern Transit: January 2020
Editor’s note: Staten Islanders may remember our coverage of the MTA Board Member who suggested that Staten Island should be punished for fighting against congestion pricing by not giving islanders the promised new train cars. This suggestion was immediately shot down by a board member with voting rights, whereas the member who suggested it does not have voting rights on the MTA Board.
Inaugural Ride. Image Credit – Asm. Charles Fall
Press conference before the Inaugural Ride. Image Credit – Asm. Charles Fall
Fast forward to 2024, and I am proud to see those efforts come to fruition with the arrival of the new R211S trains. These trains not only replace the outdated R44s but also bring much-needed advancements like wider doors, better accessibility, and enhanced safety features such as onboard security cameras.
It’s rewarding to see this vision for Staten Island’s transportation system becoming a reality. I remain committed to advocating for infrastructure improvements that benefit our residents and make daily commuting easier, safer, and more reliable.
“I’m excited to see the new R211S train cars as a key part of modernizing Staten Island’s transportation system,” said Assembly Member Charles D. Fall. “With security cameras and wider doors, these cars will improve public safety while making commuting easier and more comfortable. I remain committed to supporting transit projects that enhance our infrastructure and improve daily commutes for our residents on Staten Island.”
Banner Image: Inaugural ride on the SIRT newest cars. Image Credit – Asm. Fall
Assemblyman Charles D. Fall
Assemblymember Charles Fall represents New York’s 61st Assembly District covering the North Shore of Staten Island, where he has resided his whole life. Fall is the first Muslim and African-American Assemblymember elected from Staten Island. He comes from a working-class family of six. His parents immigrated to Staten Island from Guinea, West Africa, and displayed a commitment to improving the lives of those around them. Fall’s legislative priorities revolve around comprehensive strategies to ensure stable and healthier communities. This includes expanding resources for teachers, parents and students to resolve academic disparities, creating affordable housing options, ensuring individuals and families have sufficient health coverage and access to vital services, improving transportation infrastructure and other long-standing community concerns on the North Shore.