Episode Details

In this episode of One to One, Sheryl McCarthy interviews transit advocate Danny Pearlstein about the feasibility of making New York City bus rides free and improving overall service. They discuss current fare structures, pilot programs showing increased ridership but slower speeds, and competing proposals from the mayor and city council to expand free or reduced transit for low-income riders. The conversation also highlights broader challenges like slow bus speeds, traffic congestion, funding, and the need for systemic changes—such as dedicated bus lanes and congestion pricing—to make public transit faster, more reliable, and more accessible.

1. 0:00 – Free Bus Promise: Reality or Politics?
The mayor’s pledge and early skepticism.
2. 5:00 – Who Pays? Fares, Discounts & Affordability
Current pricing, low-income programs, and proposed expansions.
3. 10:00 – Why NYC Buses Are So Slow
Key rider complaints and the challenge of traffic congestion.
4. 17:30 – Congestion Pricing & Transit Impact
How new policies are reshaping travel and funding transit.
5. 24:00 – The Future of NYC Transit
Bus improvements, accessibility, and long-term vision.

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