Glendale, NY – New York State Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages recently toured the Fresh Pond rail yard in Glendale, NY, hosted by the New York & Atlantic Railway (NYA), the region’s short-line rail freight line. The visit focused on the significant economic and environmental advantages of rail freight transportation in the New York metropolitan area.

Assemblywoman Solages emphasized the importance of sustainable and efficient freight transportation in bolstering the state’s economy and protecting the environment.

“The operations of NY & Atlantic Railway are crucial to the economic strength and sustainability of the Long Island region and our entire state,” said Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages. “Their leadership in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and building a diverse workforce sets a powerful example for our transportation sector and beyond. I extend my gratitude to President Marlon Taylor and the NYA team for welcoming me to tour their facilities and experience firsthand the innovative approaches they are pioneering in freight transportation.”

NYA President Marlon Taylor provided an overview of the rail yard’s operations, including the company’s dedication to workplace safety, its strong safety record, and its collaborative training efforts with regional public safety agencies such as the FDNY, NYPD, and local volunteer fire departments. He also highlighted NYA’s commitment to good corporate citizenship and support for community-based organizations.

“A single NYA freight train can greatly reduce truck traffic and overall congestion, which will help lessen the stress on our local roadways and related infrastructure,” explained Mr. Taylor. “Less trucks mean reduced greenhouse gas emissions, which improve regional air quality and help achieve New York State’s aggressive carbon reduction goals.”

During the visit, Assemblywoman Solages learned about NYA’s ongoing efforts to diversify its workforce through training and recruitment programs, as well as its internal culture of promoting from within. She also toured the facility’s clean emissions locomotives, which are integral to reducing the environmental impact of freight transportation.

About New York & Atlantic Railway

New York & Atlantic Railway began operations in May 1997 as part of a privatized concession to operate freight trains on lines owned by Long Island Rail Road. Serving a diverse customer base, NYA connects with major freight railroads, including CP, CSX, NYNJ, NS, and PW, while sharing tracks with the densest passenger rail system in the United States.