I believe that if we can keep traffic moving, that will alleviate a lot of problems we have and stimulate the regional economy. I’d do away with the law that prevents drivers from turning right at a red light. Sometimes this is unnecessary and causes traffic to back up. Research has shown that if drivers could turn right on red when it’s safe, traffic would keep moving, which would in turn help the economy – drivers would spend less on fuel, delivery companies could service more customers, and people wouldn’t waste valuable time sitting in traffic.

I. Infrastructure: Light Electric Rail, Electric Monorail, More Electric Busses, Increase Waterway Usage – All to replicate the Subway System. We intend on replacing the Subway System with a new clean Pressure Driven system similar to the vacuum tubes used at Banks to send money from your car to a bank teller. The subways will be quite, faster, cleaner, air conditioned and heated throughout with no sludge, water, or vermin. It is also our intent to build high speed rail solutions in partnerships with upstate new York, long island and neighboring states to enable travel to and from NYC form large affordable modern day “Levittown” housing complexes that have fitness facilities, schools, houses of worship, parks, parking etc. This will enable people to have a wonderful quality of life yet still enjoy the benefits or working and enjoying New York City.

As you know, I was a vigorous proponent of congestion pricing. Congestion pricing would have reduced traffic, improved public health, generated billions of dollars for mass transit improvements and helped the city recoup some of the $13 billion in losses to the regional economy caused by congestion. But, though we tried valiantly, the State Legislature refused to bring the proposal to a vote.

Nevertheless, I remain committed to finding alternative solutions to our congestion problem. In addition to the successful midtown “Thru Streets” program, my administration launched the Citywide Congested Corridors Project, a study of busy roadways in all 5 boroughs that looks at ways to improve safety and mobility, clean our air, and cut travel times.

Strong support of mass transit is perhaps our most effective tool against traffic congestion, which is why I have been a vigorous supporter of transportation projects. My administration is funding the extension of the #7 line, a $2.1 billion project that will be the first subway expansion in decades.

Finally, my Moving NYC plan includes various initiatives to increase the access, appeal, and affordability of our mass transit and reduce traffic congestion around the city. I encourage you to read the full plan at www.mikebloomberg.com/bettertransit.

While in office and on the campaign trail, I’ve talked to countless business leaders who tell me that traffic is a business killer. Congestion adds to delivery costs, makes it hard to get supplies to construction sites, and can discourage local commerce.

The battle to reduce congestion must continue, but more strategically and wisely. I supported the mayor’s congestion pricing plan, but on the condition that certain modifications were implemented to make it more equitable and workable.

As Mayor, I will lead the fight to reduce congestion as a necessary element of our economic recovery and to improve our quality of life. Among other proposals, I will support:

* Use of time-based tolls on MTA facilities;
* Introduction of neighborhood parking permit programs to discourage park-and-commute traffic;
* A weight-based vehicle registration fee to discourage the purchase of automobiles, especially over-sized models, in the City;
* Increase of BRT and other initiatives to increase transit use by underserved communities, including moves to increase accessibility for wheelchair users and other persons who are mobility-impaired;
* A comprehensive plan to reduce truck traffic – the fastest growing segment on our roads – with a Cross-Harbor Tunnel and other initiatives.