“I have asked the Port Authority to thoroughly examine alternative mass transit solutions for reducing car traffic and increasing connectivity to LaGuardia Airport,” said Hochul in a statement. “We must ensure that our transportation projects are bold, visionary, and serve the needs of New Yorkers. I remain committed to working expeditiously to rebuild our infrastructure for the 21st century and to create jobs — not just at LaGuardia but at all of our airports and transit hubs across New York."

Hochul’s remarks came just before a rally on Monday in Corona, Queens at a site along the potential AirTrain route held by project opponents, including State Senators Jessica Ramos, Leroy Comrie, Michael Gianaris, and John Liu, who pushed the governor to terminate the project altogether rather than just explore other options. 

Noting the damages and ongoing clean-up from Hurricane Ida, along with the community’s experience during the height of the pandemic, Ramos said East Elmhurst “has suffered a lot” and explained that the neighborhood would be impacted the most by the project’s construction. Additionally, she and others fear that the train would only bring more traffic into the area from people parking to catch a ride on the AirTrain. 

Despite concerns and even a letter from Port Authority staffers who raised alarms regarding alleged foul play by Cuomo to push the project forward, the Port Authority still plans on moving ahead with the controversial $2 billion project. It remains to be seen what actions Hochul will now take on the project.