Authors

Zhiyi Xu, Nazira Cisse, Sangeeta Gundlapalli

Research Question

How can New York policy and inter-agency coordination be leveraged to create reliable revenue streams for commuter vans and paratransit operators in NYC — while simultaneously accelerating their transition to zero-emission vehicles?

Background

This capstone project supports Dollaride's mission to help urban fleet operators in NYC — such as commuter vans, paratransit providers, and Medicaid NEMT fleets — transition to electric vehicles while accessing more reliable revenue streams. By mapping the policy levers that could expand these fleets' eligibility to participate in MTA's Access-A-Ride and NYS DOH's Medicaid programs, and aligning that with clean transportation funding (e.g., from NYSERDA), the project advances Dollaride's core objectives of equitable mobility, clean air, and economic development.

Methodology

This project explores how NYC and NYS government agencies can use policy coordination to accelerate clean transportation adoption among underserved urban fleets — particularly commuter vans and paratransit/NEMT providers. The team analyzes budget allocations and contracting policies from MTA, DOH, and other relevant agencies, as well as NYSERDA's role in clean mobility investment. Using policy analysis, data integration, and stakeholder interviews, the project proposes an inter-agency strategy to link revenue opportunities (e.g., AAR/NEMT contracts) to vehicle electrification pathways.

Deliverables

• Policy Brief & Strategic Roadmap: A policy brief outlining actionable recommendations for NYC and NYS agencies — such as the MTA, NYSERDA, and NYS DOH — to expand access to public funding streams (e.g., Access-A-Ride and Medicaid NEMT) for commuter van operators. The roadmap details how policy coordination can accelerate ZEV adoption while supporting economic mobility and environmental justice.
• Geospatial & Economic Analysis Tool: An interactive map or dashboard visualizing commuter van service areas, transit deserts, and potential zones of high impact for fleet electrification based on demographic, air quality, and infrastructure data. The tool may also include scenario modeling showing cost savings and emissions reductions tied to ZEV adoption and program participation.
• Stakeholder Engagement Summary & Presentation Materials: A compilation of stakeholder interviews, policy insights, and agency responses, along with presentation-ready materials (e.g., slide deck, one-pagers) to support real-world engagement and advocacy efforts led by the project sponsor and community partners.

Data Sources

• Policy documents, budget allocations, and public transit regulations
• Interviews with transportation providers and policymakers
• Open data (e.g., vehicle registrations, transit deserts, contract spend)