Philipstown Dem Nominated To Continue Representing Putnam At The MTA

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — The finance chair of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority board will serve another term as Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne's recommended representative.

The New York State Senate is set to confirm Neal Zuckerman, Byrne said Tuesday in a news release.

Zuckerman, currently serving as the finance chair of the MTA board, has been an instrumental figure in effectively representing both the county and the Metro-North Railroad system, Byrne said.

"Neal Zuckerman's confirmation to the MTA board is a testament to his exceptional dedication and expertise. As the finance chair, he has proven himself to be an asset to the board, ensuring the financial stability and effectiveness of the Metro-North Railroad system," said Byrne. "Despite our differing political affiliations, the people of Putnam County recognize the immense value Neal brings to the board. This non-partisan appointment reflects our shared commitment to serving our community and enhancing the MTA's services for residents."

Zuckerman, a resident of Philipstown, expressed gratitude for the nomination and the opportunity to continue representing his community on the MTA board.

"I’m honored to be confirmed for another term by the State Senate, and continue serving as Putnam County’s representative on the MTA board," said Zuckerman. "I’m proud to call Putnam my home, and I will continue to work diligently to represent the interests and needs of our community and improve the transportation infrastructure for customers. Thank you again to County Executive Kevin Byrne for officially recommending me."

The MTA's Metro-North Railroad runs commuter train lines at both ends of Putnam County — the Hudson Line on the west side and the Harlem Line on the east.

Zuckerman's confirmation highlights the collaborative efforts between the county government and the MTA to address Putnam's transportation needs effectively, Byrne said.

The MTA's 23-member board oversees North America's largest transportation network, serving a population of 15.3 million people across a 5,000-square-mile travel area surrounding New York City, the Hudson Valley, Long Island and Connecticut. The MTA network comprises the nation’s largest bus fleet and more subway and commuter rail cars than all other U.S. transit systems combined.

Voting members are nominated by the governor, the county executives of the counties serving the MTA's service area, and New York City's mayor.

As a member of the MTA board, Zuckerman will continue to use his extensive background in finance and his understanding of the industry to advocate for the county's interests, contribute to the development and implementation of policies and initiatives that benefit both Putnam County and the MTA as a whole, Byrne said.