THIRD QUARTER 2022 • VOL. 10, NO. 3 ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Legislative Session Updates A Closer Look at the I-81 Viaduct Project Single Credential Legislation TDC/SuperTech Awards NYC CONGESTION PRICING PROGRAM MOVES FORWARD
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Published by 550 SW 2nd Avenue Gainesville, FL 32601 Phone: (800) 369-6220 www.naylor.com Account Manager Claire Brimmer Project Manager Carlos Santana Editor Leslee Masters Publication Leader Adam Firestone Advertising Sales Jason Zawada Marketing Shelby Pate Project Administrator Paige Durban Layout and Design Mahender Veer Cover Design Mahender Veer ©2022 Naylor, LLC. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2022/ NYT-Q0322/7960 For inquiries regarding editorial content, please contact David Carnevale, Communications & Marketing Manager, [email protected], (518) 458-9696, ext. 107. Published for Trucking Association of New York 7 Corporate Drive Clifton Park, NY 12065 Phone: (518) 458-9696 Fax: (518) 458-2525 www.nytrucks.org THIRD QUARTER 2022 • VOL. 10, NO. 3 President’s Message..............................................6 New York City Legislative Session Update .......................................................7 New York State Legislative Session Update .......................................................8 Highways to Boulevards ....................................10 A closer look at the 1-81 Viaduct Project. NYC Congestion Pricing Program Moves Forward ..................................12 Transportation Security Administration Threat Assessment Modernization Act Introduced ......................................................14 New York State Truck Driving Championships and SuperTech Competition .....................................16 Index of Advertisers ............................................18 THIRD QUARTER 2022 • milepost | 5
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS Chairman Barry Panicola Sprague Operating Resources LLC Vice Chairman Mark Giuffre United Parcel Service Secretary Terry Borwegen Borwegen Trucking, Inc. Treasurer Chris Mix Mr. Bult’s, Inc. Immediate Past Chair Chris Mix Mr. Bult’s, Inc. REGIONAL VICE CHAIRS Western Region Joe Berti Speed Global Services Genesee Region Sean Dubman Wegmans Food Market Central Region Stephen Erwin Clinton’s Ditch Co-Op., Inc. Eastern Region Andy Laing DeCrescente Distributing Co., Inc. Metro Region Zach Miller NYTruckStop.com REGIONAL SECRETARY Western Region John Stewart HazMat Environmental Group, Inc. Genesee Region Robert Peckham Vnomics Corp. Central Region Colleen Rejman Venice Enterprise, Inc. Eastern Region Becky Derway GilDer Transport Solutions, Inc. Metro Region Kenneth Tirone Hub Truck Rental Corporation COUNCIL CHAIRS Maintenance Council Swede Oun O & K Truck Repairs, Ltd. Safety Council Joseph Peplinski Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc. Safety Group John Simon Grand Island Sales & Service, Inc. AT-LARGE MEMBERS Helen Brooks FedEx Corporation Joe Fitzpatrick Lightning Express Delivery Service, Inc. JoAnn Hayes George Hildebrandt, Inc. Penny Husted Charles J. Husted, Inc. ATA STATE VICE PRESIDENT Stephen Wadhams Wadhams Enterprises, Inc. STAFF President Kendra Hems Vice President Kate Kennett Communications & Marketing Manager David Carnevale Office Manager Rebecca Ackner Program and Events Manager Steve Bobarakis Workforce Development Coordinator Rusty Stetzel Administrative Assistant Mary Harwood DEAR MEMBER, “The Trucking Association of New York is the VOICE of Trucking – creating jobs, supporting the economy, driving safety & delivering a sustainable future for our members.” (TANY Mission Statement) A significant benefit of membership with TANY is the voice you get through TANY’s advocacy efforts. While TANY represents the voice of trucking, it’s our members who provide the voice. Participation during committee meetings, events and conferences ensure TANY staff remain aware of issues impacting the membership. TANY’s Government Affairs Committee then considers this input as they develop the association’s legislative agenda. There are well-known issues that remain on the agenda each year, such as Highway Use Tax repeal and workforce development needs. However, where member input is critical is for those unique issues that may not be on TANY’s radar until a member raises them. Compliance burdens, tax issues, permit issues…those day-to-day operational headaches are what TANY wants to know about. Particularly now, as business operations begin to return to “normal,” what are the most significant issues that are making it difficult to operate your business? There are likely certain burdens to business that have existed for so long that they may not be something one would immediately think of for TANY’s advocacy efforts. They have simply become part of what you do to run your business. With that in mind, I offer two questions to our members: What are the top five issues that create the most headaches for you to run your business? What opportunities are there for TANY to implement changes that would help your business? The answers to these questions can help shape TANY’s legislative agenda for 2023. We know of the big issues that carriers across the nation are dealing with, but what are those New York-centric concerns that we need to work on? Make sure your voice is being heard so TANY can work to address your issues. Please feel free to call or email me to discuss your needs. I look forward to hearing from you. Stay safe, Kendra Hems, TANY President PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE …where member input is critical is for those unique issues that may not be on TANY’s radar until a member raises them. Compliance burdens, tax issues, permit issues…those day-to-day operational headaches are what TANY wants to know about. 6 | milepost • THIRD QUARTER 2022
This year has shaped up to be one of the most important and sweeping election cycles in New York City history in more than a decade. Due to term limits, in January a wave of newly elected officials took office, including the mayor, city council speaker, New York City comptroller, four of the five borough presidents and more than 30 new council members (along with new committee chairs), not to mention deputy mayors, commissioners and a host of other appointments. Mayor Adams came into office inheriting a global pandemic, spiking rates of violent crime, an economic crisis, an exhausted city workforce and rapidly accelerating homelessness. In his first six months in office, he hit the ground running with a slew of appointments and published blueprints on public safety, economic development, housing and child care, outlining his vision for the city. He achieved notable accomplishments including a decline in homicides and shootings, removal of more than 3,700 illegal guns from the streets, increased subway ridership, recovery of private sector jobs, a return of tourism and an early and historic $101 billion dollar budget. There’s still a lot of work to do. CMW worked closely with TANY to position the association with the new administration, notch some early wins and make good progress on multiple fronts. NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS In the fall, TANY finally saw the ‘Freight Delivery’ package through ADVOCACY NEW YORK CITY LEGISLATIVE SESSION UPDATE to the finish line in what was the first comprehensive legislative package of its kind to address some of the longstanding challenges faced by the industry. The Freight Delivery package: • Expanded commercial loading zones citywide, creating at least five loading zones annually in each neighborhood for a total of no less than 500 additional loading zones per year for the first three years; • Reformed the commercial metered parking system and expanding the number of hours vehicles can park in the central business district (CBD); and • Created micro-distribution centers with dedicated space for delivery companies, requiring DOT to establish a micro-distribution center pilot program by July 1, 2023. Since then, TANY and CMW were also able to: • Push to reopen the courts for commercial vehicles; TANY sent a letter to the Department of Finance commissioner urging action and also raised awareness among key council members and administration officials; • Appear before City Council and NYC agency public hearings to provide testimony on issues that impact the industry, such as idling rules and an oversight hearing on the federal infrastructure money; • Secure letters of support for TANY’s partnership with CALSTART for a Freight Electrification-as-aService for Transformation (FEaST) submission to the Electric Truck & Bus Challenge within NYSERDA’s Clean Transportation Prizes program; and • Schedule key meetings with the chair of Transportation and the commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation, among others. Of course there’s still much to accomplish, particularly as Mayor Adams and Speaker Adams are rounding the corner past transition and beginning to plan for the future. A LOOK AHEAD Since January, TANY and CMW have been busy getting to know the new decision-makers and educating them on key trucking issues in New York City. TANY hosted its first ever New York City Lobby Day where we met with several elected officials on the Transportation Committee and New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. We discussed issues ranging from truck parking to concerns around the citizens reporting on idling, and the importance of the stipulated fine program. An overwhelming priority and recurring theme that has come up in conversation is the issue of overnight truck parking in residential areas. TANY has been receptive to its members’ concerns while continuing to stress that we must provide legal truck parking options before we resort to punitive measures. We’ve been in constant communication with the council, administration and DOT to try and find solutions to this by Danna DeBlasio, Managing Director, CMW Strategies Continued on page 8 THIRD QUARTER 2022 • milepost | 7
The New York State Legislature concluded its legislation session on June 3, 20 days sooner than the usual adjournment date. This shortened session was a result of the recent decision to move the state’s primary election day from September to June 28. Despite the loss of nearly a month, the Legislature passed a record 1,007 bills, the most in 25 years. Last year was also a record-setting year, with the passage of 892 bills. While many of the passed bills were not controversial or necessary for state operations, the Legislature spent a significant amount of time addressing unexpected national issues. This included passage of 10 bills strengthening New York’s gun laws after the mass shooting in Buffalo, and abortion protections in the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling. It also, after much debate, extended mayoral control of New York City schools and passed election reform and voting rights legislation. Despite the large number of bills that passed, the Legislature didn’t issue. This is among several priority areas that TANY and CMW will focus on in the year ahead. Others include: • Fighting for more curb access, including but not limited to loading zones and commercial parking • Reforming the process for citizens reporting on idling to provide due process to truck drivers and companies • Continuing to fight for and protect the stipulated fine program, which is a win-win for the city and the industry • Advocating for recalibrated truck routes and signage throughout the city • Loading zone enforcement • Working with government to encourage customers to accept more overnight deliveries We know that New York City is a very challenging environment for trucking, but it’s reassuring to hear from many elected officials, including the speaker of the New York City Council, who have family members or friends who are drivers and are sympathetic to the challenges they face. We will continue to draw on these connections, highlighting the economic impact of the industry and essential nature of delivering 90 percent of goods to New Yorkers. mp ADVOCACY NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATIVE SESSION UPDATE pass several hotly contested bills, including legislation that would clear a person’s criminal record of certain charges after a set number of years and “good cause” eviction legislation. It also failed to pass an extension of New York City’s 421-a real estate tax break that was intended to incentivize affordable housing development, parole reform and additions to the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Concerning the trucking industry, we actively monitored or engaged on more than 60 bills throughout the session, including legislation contained in the state budget. We again convinced the Legislature to remove onerous fines and registration penalties for operating a truck on parkways and supported the passage of legislation that extends the validity of a commercial learner’s permit to one year, which conforms to federal law. We also engaged with legislators on the ongoing problem of truck parking in New York City, which we anticipate will be a significant issue in the coming legislative session. Finally, we began discussions with potential sponsors for legislation relating to what and how often commercial vehicles are charged once New York City’s congestion pricing program starts, and maintained our strong opposition to the continuation of the state’s highway use tax. Politically, there have been several developments this year worth a brief mention. The governor won the Democratic primary by a large margin and faces Republican Lee Zeldin in November. The Court of Appeals struck down the Legislature’s newly drawn Congressional and Senate district lines, which created an unexpected mess toward the end of session and forced the state to hold two primaries – one for the governor and assembly and one for the Senate and Congress. We can expect several changes in Congress and the Senate as a result; however, it is not expected that the Democrats will lose the majority in the Senate. mp by Chris Bombardier President, Catalyst Government Relations NEW YORK CITY LEGISLATIVE... Continued from page 7 8 | milepost • THIRD QUARTER 2022
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On May 31, 2022, NYS Governor Kathy Hochul and U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer announced the signing of the formal Record of Decision (ROD; the federal environmental decision document which explains the reasons for a project decision) for the Interstate 81 (I-81) Viaduct Project in Syracuse, NY. The project, which started in 2008, studied alternatives to repair or replace a 1.4 mile stretch of I-81 that runs through downtown Syracuse via an elevated viaduct. This section of the interstate, which was more than 50 years old, had reached the end of its useful life. While the viaduct was still safe, it did not meet current highway standards. As part of the initial study the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) considered multiple options including tearing down the viaduct and replacing it with a new elevated highway built to today’s standards, replacing the viaduct with a tunnel or a depressed highway, or eliminating the highway altogether and replacing it with an at-grade boulevard, referred to in the studies as a community grid. TANY supported replacing the existing viaduct with a new one in order to maintain the efficient flow of freight through the region. More than 80 percent of the commerce on I-81 moving into, out of or through Syracuse supports domestic trade. In addition, 2.92 million tons of foreign trade valued at $8 billion moves across the Syracuse section of I-81 annually going to and from Canada. The project itself was incredibly controversial. When the highway was originally constructed in the 1950s and 60s, it cut through the FEATURE by Kendra Hems Pioneer Homes complex, which is primarily low-income housing and has some of the most concentrated black and Hispanic poverty in the United States. Today some of the homes are on the east side of the viaduct, immediately below Upstate Medical Hospital, while the rest of the homes are on the west side of the highway. The reconstruction of I-81 was viewed by many in the Pioneer Homes community as an opportunity to “right the wrongs of the past” and reconnect their neighborhood. They started a strong advocacy campaign supporting the community grid option. Business groups in the region were opposed to the community grid. They were concerned that eliminating the highway would negatively impact their businesses as traffic would be re-routed around the east side of Syracuse via I-481 (which will be redesignated as Business Loop 81). This would shift truck drivers and travelers away from hotels, restaurants, gas stations and retail centers. Many businesses along the I-81 corridor rely on this traffic. Eventually, a group of businesses came together to form the Save81 Coalition, advocating for a solution that would maintain traffic flow on I-81 through the city. TANY joined the Save81 Coalition in 2018, not because it opposed the urban renewal aspect of the grid option, but because it presents a major threat to the highway system and commerce for the city, which in the big picture will only be detrimental to all communities. As time progressed, the issue became more contentious. More than a decade of hearings, meetings and presentations were held to discuss the alternatives. It quickly TO became clear that there were two distinct groups of advocates: pro-grid and anti-grid. Additionally, what originally started as a project to address an aging infrastructure asset quickly became more about politics than it did about maintaining an interstate. The I-81 project gained national attention and was viewed by advocates as a case-study for urban renewal. The Brookings Institution published an article in 2019 which essentially gave New York a directive: “As leaders in Syracuse and New York State may focus inward on next steps for the $2 billion I-81 project, they should not lose sight of their national position. Each decision they make – in terms of project design, public engagement, and economic development – will offer guidance to other regions. Their efforts could help spur additional moves around the country to reverse the mistakes of the past by using infrastructure to reconnect our urban communities.” (The Brookings Institution. March 2019: Removing a highway and reconnecting a community: I-81 and Syracuse, NY.) While there are other cities that have already dropped elevated highways to boulevards, what has made the Syracuse project unique is that it will decommission a portion of the national highway system, which requires approval from the Federal Highway Administration. For the trucking industry, the I-81 project presents a concern larger than just the impact on Central New York. Similar to I-81, highways across the country that have reached the end of their useful life have been identified by a group called the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) as opportunities to reconnect HIGHWAYS BOULEVARDS 10 | milepost • THIRD QUARTER 2022
1. Akron – Innerbelt 2. Austin – I-35 3. Buffalo – Kensington Expressway 4. Buffalo – Scajaquada Expressway 5. Buffalo – Skyway 6. Dallas – I-345 7. Denver – I-70 8. Detroit – I-375 9. Duluth – I-35 10. Hartford – I-84 Viaduct 11. Kansas City – North Loop 12. Long Beach – Shoreline Drive 13. Long Beach – Terminal Island Freeway 14. Louisville – I-64 15. Miami – Overton Expressway 16. New Haven – Oak Street Connector 17. New Orleans – Claiborne Expressway 18. New York – Brooklyn-Queens Expressway 19. Niagara Falls – Robert Moses Parkway 20. Oakland – I-980 21. Pasadena – State Route 710 22. Portland – I-5 23. Rochester – Inner Loop North 24. Seattle – I-5 25. San Francisco – I-280 Spur 26. Somervile – McGrath Highway 27. St. Louis – I-70 28. Syracuse – I-81 29. Tampa I-275 30. Toronto – Gardiner Expressway 31. Trenton – Route 29 32. Tulsa – I-244 Highways to Boulevards Targets communities. They advocate for aging highways to be replaced with city streets that prioritize pedestrians and bicyclists, rather than the movement of traffic and freight. Currently the group lists 32 highways on their website as either targeted for removal or completed projects. In New York alone, similar discussions are currently focused on three highways in Buffalo, I-787 in Albany and I-278 (the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway) in New York City. In July of 2021, the NYSDOT released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) on the I-81 project, identifying the community grid as the preferred alternative. TANY provided comments to the DEIS, noting specifically that an analysis of the impacts of the project on freight activity had not been conducted. Concerns regarding safety, increased emissions and the negative impacts on the efficiency of freight movement in the region were all but ignored in the DEIS. Despite the significant concerns raised by opponents to the grid, the ROD was issued by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in May. The ROD provided approval for New York to move forward with I-81 Viaduct Project Onondaga County, New York 2017 Appendix C: Visual Simulations Original Photograph Direction of View: North Viewpoint 18 Almond Street at East Adams Street Landscape Unit: Transportation Corridor - Highway Sheet 1 of 3 I-81 Viaduct Project Onondaga County, New York 2017 Appendix C: Visual Simulations Note: These visualizations are representative of design intent and the preliminary layout of site elements. These elements will be further refined as the design progresses. The final selection of site elements such as lighting, planting, and paving, as well as materials, colors and finishes, will be determined during final design. Trees and plantings are shown in an established and mature state. Visual Simulation: Community Grid Alternative Direction of View: North Landscape Unit: Transportation Corridor - Highway Sheet 3 of 3 Viewpoint 18 Almond Street at East Adams Street Almond Street at East Adams Street, looking north I-81 Viaduct Project Onondaga County, New York 2017 Appendix C: Visual Simulations Original Photograph Direction of View: West Viewpoint 7 Harrison Street at Almond Street Landscape Unit: Urban Institutional Campus Sheet 1 of 3 I-81 Viaduct Project Onondaga County, New York 2017 Appendix C: Visual Simulations Note: These visualizations are representative of design intent and the preliminary layout of site elements. These elements will be further refined as the design progresses. The final selection of site elements such as lighting, planting, and paving, as well as materials, colors and finishes, will be determined during final design. Trees and plantings are shown in an established and mature state. Visual Simulation: Community Grid Alternative Direction of View: West Viewpoint 7 Harrison Street at Almond Street Landscape Unit: Urban Institutional Campus Sheet 3 of 3 Harrison Street at Almond Street, looking west ANDREW M. CUOMO, Governor MARIE THERESE DOMINGUEZ, Commissioner I-81 DAVID P. SMITH, PE, Regional Director Viaduct Project Community Grid Alternative Would involve demolition of the I-81 viaduct between the railway bridge near Renwick Avenue and the I-81/I-690 interchange Portion of I-81 between its interchanges with I-481 (16A and 29) would be re-designated as Business Loop 81 (BL 81), including Almond Street and Erie Boulevard from Almond Street to Oswego Boulevard I-481 would be re-designated as the new I-81 I-690 would be reconstructed from Leavenworth Avenue to Beech Street, with a partial BL 81/I-690 interchange Direct connections to and from I-690 and BL 81 available at West Street, Crouse and Irving Avenues (to and from I-690), Clinton Street, Oswego Boulevard, and Pearl Street (to and from northern BL 81) North-south traffic would be channeled through Almond Street and along parallel corridors, such as Crouse Avenue, Irving Avenue, State Street, and Townsend Street. East-west traffic routes would include Erie Boulevard, Harrison Street, and Adams Street A new northbound BL 81 exit ramp to East Colvin Street would be constructed Cost: $1.9 billion Construction duration: 5 years Before After Before After The reconstructed Almond Street would typically include two lanes, as well as turn bays when needed, in each direction. PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE tearing down the I-81 Viaduct and replacing it with the community grid option. In announcing the decision, Governor Hochul said “The I-81 Viaduct Project gives us an historic opportunity to correct an enduring injustice, and we are boldly embracing this opportunity so we can reconnect neighborhoods and revitalize Central New York communities.” As more of these types of projects get underway across the country there is a real threat to the trucking industry. Removal of Continued on page 18 THIRD QUARTER 2022 • milepost | 11
The Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP), otherwise known as Congestion Pricing, was passed as part of New York’s state budget in 2019. In passing the legislation, the state legislature justified the measure by stating it was necessary to ensure a safe and efficient mass transit system within the city of New York and to protect the public health and safety of New York’s residents. The program will establish tolls for vehicles entering or remaining in the Central Business District (CBD), with few exceptions. The CBD includes all roadways, bridges, tunnels, approaches or ramps that are located in Manhattan south of and inclusive of 60th Street. The CBD does NOT include the FDR Drive or the West Side Highway. Tolls will be charged for vehicles that enter or remain in the CBD. Aside from the obvious concerns about another tolling program in New York, the Trucking Association of New York (TANY) immediately identified a number of significant issues with the program, including but not limited to: • While passed under the guise of addressing congestion in New York City, the true intent of the program is to raise revenue for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). In fact, the legislation directs that the tolls collected MUST generate revenue to fund $15 billion dollars for the MTA capital program. • 100 percent of the toll revenue will be used to support mass transit. None of it will be invested in the city’s deteriorating roads and bridges. • The legislation specifically states that passenger vehicles shall only be charged a toll once per day despite the number of times they pass into or out of the CBD. The FEATURE NYC CONGESTION PRICING PROGRAM MOVES FORWARD same exemption hasn’t been provided for commercial vehicles despite the fact that they have no choice but to enter the zone to make essential freight deliveries. • The program will be managed by the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority (TBTA), which provides little transparency as toll rates are set and/or increased. Due to the potential significant environmental impacts of the program, the MTA undertook a federally required Environmental Assessment (EA). The draft EA was submitted to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for review in February. On Wednesday, August 10, the MTA released the EA for public review and comment. The release of the EA begins a 30-day comment period that concludes on September 9. Six virtual public hearings to provide information and receive comments will be held beginning on August 25. The full EA can be downloaded at new.mta.info/project/CBDTP. Within the EA, the MTA outlines seven tolling scenarios for consideration. None of the scenarios benefit the trucking industry. • One of the scenarios would charge commercial and passenger vehicles the same; however, passenger vehicles would only be charged once per day while commercial vehicles would be charged every time they enter the zone. • Six of the scenarios charge commercial vehicles more than passenger vehicles. • Five of the scenarios would charge commercial vehicles every time they enter the zone. • One of the scenarios would only charge commercial vehicles once per day. • One of the scenarios would only charge commercial vehicles twice per day. • Three scenarios provide a credit for vehicles using a tunnel to access the congestion zone. • One scenario provides a credit for vehicles using Manhattan bridges and tunnels to access the congestion zone. As outlined in the EA, possible toll rates for commercial vehicles range from $12 up to $82 per truck entering the congestion zone. However, the final toll rates won’t be determined until after the final EA is accepted by the FHWA. Once congestion pricing is given final approval by FHWA, a Traffic Mobility Review Board will meet to discuss toll rates as well as possible exemptions and toll credits. Given the essential role the trucking industry plays in New York As required by the CBDTP legislation, the MTA announced its appointees to serve on the six-member Traffic Mobility Review Board. The board will be tasked with determining the toll rates for congestion pricing, as well as consider whether to grant any exemptions or discounts for certain motorists or vehicle classes. The appointees named are: Carl Weisbrod (Chair of the Board) – Senior Advisor to HR&A Advisors John Banks – President Emeritus of the Real Estate Board of New York Scott Rechler – Chair of the Regional Plan Association and Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of RXR John Samuelsen – International President of the Transport Workers Union Elizabeth Velez – President and Principal of the Velez Organization Kathryn Wylde – President and CEO of the Partnership for New York City MTA Names Panel to Set Congestion Pricing Tolls 12 | milepost • THIRD QUARTER 2022
City, and the fact that trucks have no option but to enter the congestion zone, TANY will be advocating for a full exemption from tolls for commercial vehicles. Of course, there is always a possibility that the federal government could choose not to approve the program. However, given the make-up of the current administration at the federal level, TANY believes this is unlikely. 527 Townline Road, Suite 201 Hauppauge, NY 11788 Phone: 631.876.5160 • Cell: 516.972.9475 Fax: 631.876.5163 Vincent A. Berretta, C.P.A. | [email protected] 1038506_Berretta.indd 1 21/04/21 12:56 PM • Fully Licensed Repair and Inspection Shop - Repair vessels, Test and Certify - VIKs, Pressure and Thickness Tests - Welding and Fabrication - National Board R Certification • Build Frames & Replace Suspensions • NYSIs • All Types of Mechanical Repairs • Over 30 years of Excellence Hazmat Environmental Group, 60 Commerce Drive, Buffalo, NY 14218 716-748-8267 | www.hazmatinc.com/equipment-service-maintenance TANKER MAINTENANCE Buffalo, NY 966882_HazMat.indd 1 2019-07-16 11:22 AM We Make Water Burn!™ K-100.com FUEL TREATMENT ® Prevent FUEL Problems! • Prevent phase separation • Eliminate moisture • Stop microbial growth and gelling Offer your customers a “premium” brand of diesel and gasoline that prevents fuel problems with K100 Fuel Treatment! and gelling and gelling 1078011_Husky.indd 1 19/07/22 8:56 PM Despite concerns raised due to economic conditions, rising fuel prices and challenges related to COVID-19, Governor Kathy Hochul remains supportive of implementing congestion pricing. “I’m committed to getting it done,” Hochul said during the democratic gubernatorial primary debate this past June. “The environment demands it. It should have happened years ago.” mp THIRD QUARTER 2022 • milepost | 13
Since the Trucking Association of New York (TANY) started participating in the American Trucking Associations’ (ATA) Call on Washington program more than a decade ago, the association has been advocating for a single background check to be used for multiple credentials that are issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This has been a priority issue for TANY members due to the cost and delays associated with drivers having to submit to multiple background checks in order to obtain credentials issued by TSA. Current TSA policies often require separate applications for TWIC, hazmat and PreCheck programs, even though TSA conducts a Security Threat Assessment (STA) for each program. In February of this year, progress was made with the FEATURE TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ADMINISTRATION introduction of the Transportation Security Administration Security Threat Assessment Application Modernization Act, introduced by Reps. John Katko (R-New York) and Adam Smith (D-Washington). In a letter to Rep. Katko providing support of the legislation, TANY President Kendra Hems wrote: “Many of TANY’s members operate at the Port of NY/NJ, the Fort Drum military base, cross the border into Canada and haul hazardous materials, all of which require a Security Threat Assessment (STA). Permitting drivers to apply successful, valid background checks from a TSA Security Threat Assessment to satisfy the vetting requirements for participation in any TSA program which requires an STA will significantly reduce the administrative and financial burdens associated with servicing these facilities.” In May, a companion bill in the Senate was introduced by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) and Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska). “This commonsense legislation will ease the burden on many hardworking men and women and allow them to focus on navigating the nation’s highways instead of government bureaucracies,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “Duplicative fees and redundant background checks are placing unnecessary costs – both financial and time – on truckers at a time when our economy is short more than 80,000 drivers. We thank Senators Wicker and Fischer for their leadership and urge the Senate to pass this much-needed legislation.” by Kendra Hems THREAT ASSESSMENT MODERNIZATION ACT INTRODUCED 141070949_Advanced.indd 1 11/07/22 11:26 PM | milepost • THIRD QUARTER 2022
Thank You to the advertisers who helped make this publication possible. The legislation, if passed, would allow those applying for two or more credentials to enroll at a TSA enrollment center once and use the standardized application to enroll in any of the TSA programs. Standardizing the enrollment process would reduce the time these workers spend applying for the credentials and remove duplicative fees. The House bill hasn’t seen any action since it was introduced in February and referred to the House Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security. The Senate bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. Nationally, the legislation is supported by the American Trucking Associations, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, National Propane Gas Association, the Transportation Trades Department, the Border Trade Alliance, the National Tank Truck Carriers, Mississippi Trucking Association, the Association of American Railroads, the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association and the National Energy and Fuels Institute (NEFI). TANY is heading to Washington, D.C. for the Call on Washington program September 27-29, 2022. This will be a priority issue during visits with New York’s Congressional delegation. ATA’s Call on Washington program provides a unique opportunity to meet directly with members of Congress, key congressional staff, federal regulators, fellow industry leaders, as well as ATA staff to discuss in person legislation and regulations affecting the trucking industry. Over the years, these visits have led to several key legislative and regulatory victories for TANY, including stopping truck route restrictions in Skaneateles, stopping commercial GPS mandates and addressing hours of service issues among others. mp New York State Woman Owned Business Enterprise, NYSWOBE #53310 National Women’s Business Enterprise, WBENC #2005121673 Women Owned Small Business, WOSB #180165 www.accesscompliance.net | 518-782-2200 | [email protected] At Access Compliance, we have many services to keep you in compliance: DOT Medical Testing • DOT Examinations performed by DOT Certified Providers • HAZMAT Medical Clearances • HAZMAT training for drivers handling hazardous materials • Customized written program for your Drug and Alcohol Testing Program • Drug and Alcohol random pool for your random testing needs • Drug and Alcohol testing is done by trained collectors • Medical Review Officer (MRO) Services • After-hours Drug and Alcohol collections • Designated Employee Representatives (DER) training in what they need to know • Reasonable Suspicion Training Drug and Alcohol Testing DOT rules state that any motor carrier, interstate or intrastate operating a vehicle over 26,001 lbs, or transporting 16 or more passengers including the driver, or any vehicle transporting hazardous materials, must participate in a compliant Drug and Alcohol Testing Program, regardless of size. Program must include: Pre-employment, random and post-accident testing 1029612_Access.indd 1 11/01/21 6:57 PM 1079724_CDL.indd 1 THIRD QUARTER 2022 • milep22/07/22 12:37 PM ost | 15
The 62nd New York State Truck Driving Championships (TDC) and 24th SuperTech Competition were held in Syracuse, NY, on June 10-11. Back in person for the first time since 2019, the event kicked off under sunny skies to a rousing reception from spectators and competitors. This year there were 53 TDC competitors, including 17 rookies, and 14 SuperTech competitors with eight rookies. TDC, SUPERTECH NEW YORK STATE TRUCK DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS AND SUPERTECH COMPETITION Truck Driving Championship 2022 Statewide Driver of the Year The Driver of the Year Awards recognize those drivers who display safe driving skills, a commitment to their profession and their employer, and commitment to their community. 2022 Finalists Steven Bishop, Speed Global Services Harold Coleates, Walmart Supply Chain Kendall Heffernan, Reid Petroleum Corporation Jeffrey Taylor, Walmart Supply Chain Statewide Driver of the Year Award Winner Edward Gozdziak, TMSI-Logistics Team Trophy FedEx Freight, Inc. Mike Guanciale Written Exam Award Mark McLean, FedEx Freight, Inc. Pre-trip Inspection Award John Jadrossich, FedEx Freight, Inc. Step Van Patrick Collins, FedEx Express 3-Axle John Jadrossich, FedEx Freight, Inc. 4-Axle Marty McMahon, RIST Transport, Ltd. 5-Axle Estevez Oliver, Martin Brower Company Flatbed Ray Waage, FedEx Freight, Inc. Tanker Zachary Bourque, HazMat Environmental Group Twin Trailers Mark McLean, FedEx Freight, Inc. Sleeper Berth David Cady, Walmart Supply Chain Rookie of the Year John Levine-Pritzker, Walmart Supply Chain Grand Champion John Jadrossich, FedEx Freight, Inc. The Truck Driving Championship event was developed to promote safety on the highways through an exhibition of skill, professionalism and safe handling of a commercial motor vehicle. Competitors participate in a written exam, pre-trip inspection exam and skills course consisting of a variety of obstacles. Each entering driver was eligible to compete in one of eight classes offered: Step Van, 3-Axle, 4-Axle, 5-Axle, Flatbed, Tanker, Twin Trailers and Sleeper Berth. 16 | milepost • THIRD QUARTER 2022
2022 Statewide Golden Wrench Award SuperTech Competition The Golden Wrench Award recognizes excellence among heavy vehicle technicians. It’s a prestigious award given by the TANY Safety Council to acknowledge the best technicians in New York State. 2022 Finalists Edwin Schultz, Mohawk Truck, Inc. Jasen Reynolds, Adirondack Beverages James Pryll, Aim NationaLease 6070 COLLETT RD FARMINGTON, NY 14424 www.LeonardsExpress.com (585) 924-8140 ext.3107 SERVICE OFFERINGS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS LEONARD’S EXPRESS 600 TRACTORS 1,000 TRAILERS 65% reefer 35% van ASSET TOP 75 NATIONWIDE FREIGHT BROKERAGE BROKERAGE ROCHESTER, NY WILMINGTON, DE DRY: 200,000 sq ft REEFER: 100,000 sq ft - coming January 2023 - DRY: 40,000 sq ft REEFER: 20,000 sq ft TERMINAL/OFFICE MAP INTERMODAL SERVICES WAREHOUSING 1079612_Leonards.indd 1 18/07/22 1:20 PM Written Exam Kenneth Myers, Johnson Equipment Sales & Service, Inc Annual Inspection Procedures Adam Wagner, Speed Global Services Brakes Jeremy “Bo” Colf, Regional International Coolant &DEF Joseph Catlin, Mohawk Truck, Inc. Drive Belts Adam Wagner, Speed Global Services Electrical Mike Brutsch, Kenworth Northeast Group Engine Joseph Catlin, Mohawk Truck, Inc. Fasteners Joseph Catlin, Mohawk Truck, Inc. Precision Measuring Jeremy Hine, Don Oralls Garage Preventive Maintenance Joseph Catlin, Mohawk Truck, Inc. Tires Jeremy “Bo” Colf, Regional International Jeremy Ayres Award Jeremy “Bo” Colf, Regional International The SuperTech Competition is New York State’s premier heavy vehicle technician event and brings together technicians to test their diagnostic abilities, hands-on problem-solving skills, determination and resolve. The competition includes both a written test and skills tests in air brakes, annual inspection procedures, coolant and DEF, drive belts, electrical, engines, fasteners, precision measuring, preventive maintenance and tire analysis. Statewide Golden Wrench Award Winner Michael Brutsch, Kenworth Northeast Group Overall SuperTech Winner Joseph Catlin, Mohawk Truck, Inc. THIRD QUARTER 2022 • milepost | 17
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS highway segments in urban areas will impact the efficient movement of freight, increase fuel use, increase emissions, potentially impact driver hours of service availability and have a negative impact on safety. These are serious issues that should be important considerations as policy-makers make decisions about the future of our interstate system. The national highway system was built to support the nation’s economy, defense and mobility. While we understand and empathize with the concerns of urban communities located next to these interstates, work must be done to find a better balance to address those concerns while maintaining the original purpose of our highway system. mp Continued from page 11 HIGHWAYS TO BOULEVARDS... 1063625_Rock.indd 1 01/02/22 1:19 PM ACCOUNTING SERVICES Berretta & Costigliola, LLP��������������������������������������������������� 13 COMPLIANCE SERVICES Access Compliance, LLC������������������������������������������������������ 15 www.accesscompliance.net DIESEL EMISSION SUPPLIES DPF Regeneration ������������������������������������������������������������������9 www.dpfregeneration.com DOT PHYSICALS Access Compliance, LLC������������������������������������������������������ 15 www.accesscompliance.net DRUG & ALCOHOL AWARENESS TRAINING Access Compliance, LLC������������������������������������������������������ 15 www.accesscompliance.net DRUG & ALCOHOL TESTING Access Compliance, LLC������������������������������������������������������ 15 www.accesscompliance.net FUEL ADDITIVES Advanced Fuel Solutions������������������������������������������������������ 14 www.yourfuelsolution.com Husky Corporation (K-100 Fuel Treatment) ������������������������� 13 www.k-100.com HEAVY HAUL SPECIALISTS Rock Tech Inc.���������������������������������������������������������������������� 18 www.rtihauling.com INSURANCE CDL Associates Insurance Agency LLC������������������������������� 15 www.cdlassociates.org EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants���������������������������������� 9 www.epicbrokers.com INTERMODAL & BROKERAGE SERVICES Leonard’s Express���������������������������������������������������������������� 17 www.leonardsexpress.com OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH Access Compliance, LLC������������������������������������������������������ 15 www.accesscompliance.net TANKER MAINTENANCE HazMat Environmental Group, Inc. �������������������������������������� 13 www.hazmatinc.com TOLLING & WEIGH STATION BYPASS SERVICES Bestpass����������������������������������������������������Outside Back Cover www.bestpass.com TRADE ASSOCIATIONS NY Metropolitan Trucking Association, Inc.��������������������������� 9 www.nymetrotruck.com TRAILER DEALERS/MANUFACTURERS North Jersey Trailer & Truck Service ������������������������������������� 3 www.njtts.com Tri Tank Corp. �������������������������������������������������������������������������3 www.tritank.com TRAILER REPAIR North Jersey Trailer & Truck Service ������������������������������������� 3 www.njtts.com TRAINING SERVICES Access Compliance, LLC������������������������������������������������������ 15 www.accesscompliance.net TRUCK DEALERS/MANUFACTURERS Regional International Corporation �������������Inside Front Cover www.regionaltruckandtrailer.com TRUCK LEASING/EQUIPMENT LEASING/RENTALS Hub Truck Rental Corporation������������������������������������������������3 www.hubtruck.com TRUCK REFRIGERATION DEALERS North Jersey Trailer & Truck Service ������������������������������������� 3 www.njtts.com TRUCK REPAIR Hub Truck Rental Corporation������������������������������������������������3 www.hubtruck.com WASTE & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Modern Disposal Services, Inc. ���������������������������������������������4 www.moderncorporation.com 18 | milepost • THIRD QUARTER 2022
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How many transponders are in your fleet’s vehicles? If the answer is more than 1, give us a call at 518-864-3101 WWW.BESTPASS.COM Scan QR code to LEARN MORE 1077539_Bestpass.indd 1 16/06/22 4:18 AM