New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has named Michael Flynn as the new Commissioner for the Department of Transportation. The appointment, made shortly after Mamdani's swearing-in ceremony, signals a strong focus on improving the city's public transit system, particularly its bus services.
Flynn, a veteran transit official and consultant, is tasked with executing key transportation goals set by the new administration. These goals include making bus travel faster and enhancing road safety across the city.
Key Takeaways
- Mayor Mamdani appointed Michael Flynn as Transportation Commissioner.
- Flynn's main responsibility is to improve bus speeds and road safety.
- New York City's buses currently average 8 miles per hour.
- The plan includes building 150 miles of bus lanes and 250 miles of protected bike lanes over five years.
- Making buses free remains a goal outside the Transportation Department's direct control.
New Leadership for City Transit
Mayor Mamdani made the announcement early Thursday, introducing Flynn at an intimate swearing-in ceremony. The event took place in the old City Hall subway station, emphasizing the new administration's commitment to public transit.
Mamdani highlighted the historical significance of the location. He stated that the station's 'faded grandeur' spoke to the 'importance of public transit, to the vitality, the health and the legacy of our city.'
Flynn, 46, previously worked at the Transportation Department for nearly a decade. He then joined an urban transportation consulting firm. His experience is seen as crucial for the ambitious agenda ahead.
"I know firsthand that New York City D.O.T. has some of the most passionate, talented and committed public servants in the country, if not the world," Flynn said. "And they’re ready to think big and deliver big on our ambitious agenda."
Bus Speeds in New York
New York's buses average approximately 8 miles per hour. This makes them among the slowest in major American cities. These services primarily serve lower- and middle-income residents, especially in boroughs outside Manhattan.
Addressing Slow Bus Service and Road Safety
Improving the city's bus system was a central part of Mayor Mamdani's campaign. He called for buses to be both fast and free. While making buses free falls outside Flynn's direct control, speeding them up is a core responsibility.
The Transportation Department does not manage bus fares. Fares are set to increase to $3 in January from the current $2.90. Any plan for free buses would require agreement with Governor Kathy Hochul, who oversees the transit system. This would likely involve new tax measures.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which runs the buses, has also expressed reservations about free bus services.
Strategic Changes for Faster Transit
Flynn's authority will focus on making service faster. This involves redesigning roads and building more protected bus and bike lanes. These initiatives were also priorities for transit advocates during the previous administration.
A city law requires the creation of 150 miles of bus lanes with barriers or camera enforcement. It also mandates 250 miles of protected bike lanes over five years. This mandate now falls under the Mamdani administration's purview, with Flynn leading the effort.
Previous Administration's Record
The previous administration of Mayor Eric Adams did not meet its targets for bus and bike lane construction. In the last four years, the city installed about 28 miles of bus lanes and 95 miles of protected bike lanes. This is according to data from the Transportation Department.
Critics pointed to several abandoned or revised projects. One project even faced allegations of corruption.
Support from Transit Advocates
Several transit advocates have welcomed Flynn's appointment. They view him as a capable leader who can navigate the complex demands of the job.
Justin Balik, Vice President at Evergreen Action, a climate advocacy group, called Flynn a "serious pick." He believes Flynn can effectively balance the various aspects of the role.
Sam Schwartz, chairman of the transportation program at Hunter College, also praised Flynn. Schwartz previously hired Flynn to lead the Manhattan office of his transportation planning consulting firm. There, Flynn worked on road redesign projects focused on pedestrian safety.
"Mamdani clearly has made moving buses faster part of his goals, and making streets more livable," Schwartz said. "Mike Flynn is about as expert as you get in those areas."
Flynn's background as a consultant for the city also makes him familiar with the legislative plan for bus and bike lanes. Corey Johnson, former City Council speaker, confirmed Flynn's key role in developing that plan.
The new commissioner faces significant challenges. However, his appointment suggests a renewed commitment to transforming New York City's urban mobility. The focus will be on creating a more efficient and safer transportation network for all residents.
