Quantcast

The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

Former Gov. David Paterson Nominated to MTA Board

By Jill Colvin | April 23, 2012 7:16pm
Gov. David Paterson has been nominated to serve on the MTA board.
Gov. David Paterson has been nominated to serve on the MTA board.
View Full Caption
Governor's Office

MANHATTAN — Former Gov. David Paterson has been tapped as the next board member of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Monday the nomination of his predecessor to take the seat of long-time former board member Nancy Shevell, who resigned earlier this year after marrying former Beatle Paul McCartney.

"Gov. Paterson has dedicated his life to working for the people of this state and I am excited that he will continue his public service at the MTA," Cuomo said in a statement, adding that, "Gov. Paterson's energy, expertise, and experience will benefit the millions of New Yorkers who rely on the MTA every day."

MTA chair Joe Lhota applauded the appointment, which still must be confirmed by the state senate.

“Once confirmed by the Senate, former Gov. Paterson will bring a unique and practical perspective, particularly with respect to issues affecting minority communities and disabled New Yorkers,” he said.

“I look forward to former Gov. Paterson bringing to our board deliberations the charm, wit and compassion he has shown throughout his public life.”

Since leaving the Governor’s mansion, Paterson has been hosting a radio show on WOR, as well as teaching classes at NYU.

The NYPIRG Straphangers Campaign said that Paterson will “add badly needed diversity to the MTA board” as both an African American and someone who is visually impaired.

“In 2009, Gov. Paterson got the State legislature to approve more than $1.5 billion in new aid to keep fares down and transit capital repairs up. That hopefully will make him a spokesperson for future transit financial needs,” the group said.