Environment DEC
From the March 2006 issue
Governor Announces New Initiative for Hybrid Vehicles
Governor George E. Pataki has unveiled a new "Clean Pass-HOV" initiative that allows eligible low-emission, energy-efficient vehicles-regardless of the number of occupants-to use the Long Island Expressway High Occupancy Vehicle (LIE/HOV) lanes. The initiative became effective on March 1, 2006.
This new program is part of the Governor's energy independence plan, which he first unveiled in his 2006 State of the State Address in January. The plan will help reduce New York State's dependence on imported energy and improve the environment by increasing the use of clean renewable fuels and energy-efficient technologies.
"Our new "Clean Pass-HOV" initiative will help create a stronger, cleaner New York," Governor Pataki said. "By encouraging the use of cleaner, more energy-efficient vehicles on our roadways and providing New Yorkers with an incentive to use them, we will reduce our dependence on imported energy and help improve our environment."
High-Occupancy Vehicle Lanes
Previously, HOV lanes were
reserved for use by motorcycles,
buses and other vehicles with
two or more occupants
Under this new initiative, the LIE's HOV lanes' occupancy requirement will be waived for qualifying passenger vehicles meeting strict emissions standards and having a highway fuel economy average of at least 45 miles per gallon. Registered owners of eligible vehicles can apply to the Department of Motor Vehicles to participate in the initiative.
Prior to the Clean Pass program, the HOV lanes were reserved for use by motorcycles, buses and other vehicles with two or more occupants. Now drivers whose vehicles bear Clean Pass stickers can travel the 40 continuous miles of HOV lanes in both eastbound and westbound directions along the length of the LIE, from Medford in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, to the Queens border during the peak travel hours of 6 AM to 10 AM and 3 PM to 8 PM on weekdays. At any other times, the LIE/HOV lanes are open to all traffic.
The recent passage of the federal transportation bill, "Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users," enabled states to allow low-emission and energy-efficient vehicles to use HOV roadways regardless of occupancy. State agencies partnering in the Clean Pass program include the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
DEC Commissioner Denise M. Sheehan said, "Promoting the use of hybrid and other low-emissions vehicles is an important component of building upon New York's status as a national leader in air quality improvement. Governor Pataki's initiative will not only benefit Long Island commuters who own participating vehicles, but provides yet another incentive toward continuing technology development."
Enforcement
Dedicated patrols from the police departments in Nassau and Suffolk counties enforce LIE/HOV regulations and maintain the integrity and reliability of the HOV lanes. New signs will inform motorists about the Clean Pass program and how it works.
Applications
Applicants may call the DMV toll free at 800-697-0558. Upon application approval, the DMV will mail stickers with instructions to registered vehicle owners.
