Latimer Takes Straphanger Concerns to Metro-North

Don't be surprised if you see New York State Assemblyman George Latimer on the train platform over the next few days. He's been personally canvassing straphangers at New Rochelle, Larchmont, Mamaroneck, Harrison, Rye and Port Chester.

"I've been reaching out to commuters regularly - I was one myself for many years - and I'm trying to get both qualitative as well as quantitative input," Latimer noted. 

Latimer will take commuter concerns directly to Metro North Railroad management next month. 

"Many commuters are angry and cynical and don't want to discuss it. But whoever is willing to share their opinions will find me a willing listener. Some politicians and candidates go out on the platform simply to shake hands before an election. I'm there to help channel rider input into making things better"

Apparently he's getting an earful. 

"Some of the comments are tied to the tired, deteriorating rolling stock that has been in place for 40 years. Clearly, riders want the new M8 cars on every train, not just a few trains. Some of the comments relate to local station maintenance issues, and to on-going platform communications, so riders know what's happening when train service slows down or stops. There's a lot of work to do to address the diverse problems raised."