NY S08357

Creates a State High Speed Rail Planning Board within the Department of Transportation to plan and recommend improvements for implementing high speed rail service in New York State.

Board consists of the Transportation Commissioner, Metro-North Railroad President, and nine additional members appointed by the Governor based on recommendations from legislative leaders and expertise in transportation, infrastructure, engineering, financing, planning, and related fields.

Board duties include reviewing environmental impacts, soliciting public input through at least six regional hearings, evaluating high speed rail technologies, researching agreements with private entities, and applying for available funding.

Board must submit a comprehensive report within two years to the Governor and Legislature detailing a financing plan and identifying the organizational entity to operate New York's high speed rail program.

Act takes effect immediately and expires three years after the effective date.