Funding delivers insurance relief and safety upgrades for NYC commuter van operators, strengthening reliable service across New York City
Program has supported more than 50 vans since its launch
Empire State Development (ESD) today announced the disbursement of over $2 million through the Commuter Van Stabilization Program (CVSP) to help New York City commuter van operators offset high insurance costs and invest in critical safety and technology upgrades. The program supports small businesses that provide vital transportation options for working families across New York City.
Since its launch in September 2024, CVSP has provided insurance subsidies of up to $40,000 per van and reimbursements of up to $10,000 for safety and technology improvements, including dash cams, GPS tracking, and advanced driver assistance systems. To date, the program has supported more than 50 vans across two policy years and disbursed over $2 million to commuter van operators, contributing to a 50 percent increase in TLC-licensed vans operating citywide.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Commuter Van Stabilization Program is making a real difference for operators and riders across New York City. By helping cover steep insurance costs and supporting critical safety upgrades, ESD is strengthening an industry that thousands of working families rely on every day. This program supports small businesses, protects jobs, and ensures New Yorkers have access to safe, reliable, and affordable transportation in their communities.”
Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson said, “I applaud Empire State Development for the success of the Commuter Van Stabilization Program (CVSP). To date, the CVSP has provided $2 million to help stabilize New York City's commuter van industry. Our operators, long burdened by high insurance costs, have access to safety and technology upgrades through this program. The CVSP is a meaningful investment that acknowledges the essential role commuter vans play in augmenting our mass transportation network. To ensure continued progress and long-term sustainability, this industry needs additional support from the state.”
Commissioner Knight made the announcement at a community engagement session at the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce alongside commuter van operators.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development is New York's chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state's 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state's world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook and X.
About the Commuter Van Stabilization Program (CVSP)
Empire State Development’s Commuter Van Stabilization Program supports New York City’s commuter van industry by addressing cost disparities in the insurance market and promoting safety and modernization. The program provides up to $40,000 per van for insurance subsidies and up to $10,000 for safety and technology upgrades, including advanced driver assistance systems, dash cams, GPS tracking, and emergency equipment. Since its launch in September 2024, the program has served more than 50 commuter vans and disbursed over $2 million in funding. For detailed eligibility and program guidelines, visit the Commuter Van Stabilization Program Guidelines.
Contact:
ESD Press Office | [email protected] | (800) 260-7313
Patrick McGovern | [email protected]| (212) 803-2272