» Governor Paterson Threatens Adirondack Service…

Governor David Paterson has proposed a fifty-percent reduction in the state’s support towards the operation of the Adirondack north of Albany. As contained in his 2009-2010 Executive Budget proposal released on December 16, the subsidy would be cut from $5.0 million to $2.5 million in the coming budget year starting April 1. What effect such a sharp reduction in state funding would have is unclear, but some level of service reduction would unenviable.

ESPA immediately issued a statement opposing the cut. Association President Bruce Becker highlighted that “The Adirondack provides vital, all-weather, year-round service to nine North Country communities, in addition to offering direct connections to both Lake George and Lake Placid. Any service cuts would have a significant negative economic impact on the critical Adirondack region tourism industry. And in part of the state with already extremely limited transportation options, the loss of train service would be a severe blow to many residents. ESPA strongly urges Governor Paterson to reconsider this proposed cut and to restore full funding.”

In 2009 the Adirondack enters its 35th year of state-supported operation. Over 112,000 passengers rode to and from points north of Albany in the year-ending September 30, 2008; an 11% increase over 2007 and a dramatic increase of 29% since 2005.

ESPA has alerted the media along the Adirondack’s route of the proposed cut, in addition to writing to all North Country Senate and Assembly members, urging them to press for the restoration of full funding during the upcoming budget process.

ESPA members and other concerned citizens are urged to write Governor Paterson and their Senate and Assembly representatives, stating their support for full funding. ‘Letters of the Editor’, particularly to publications along the train’s route, are also strongly encouraged.