Assembly Minority Leader James Tedisco (R,C,I-Schenectady-Saratoga) today announced that he has appointed Andy Darrell to the newly-created New York City Traffic Congestion Mitigation Commission.

"I am pleased to appoint Andy Darrell to this new commission," Tedisco said. "His extensive knowledge of the law, as well as environmental- and health-related issues, makes him a perfect fit for this position. I am confident that he will be a productive and proactive member of this important body."

Darrell, a graduate of the University of Virginia and the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, is Director of the Living Cities program at Environmental Defense, focused on practical, market-based solutions for climate change and health in major cities. He is also a member of Mayor Michael Bloomberg's Sustainability Advisory Board, and a trustee of the Van Alen Institute, the New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund and New York City's International House.

"I am honored to be appointed to this commission," Darrell said. "Traffic emissions pose an immediate health threat to the millions of New Yorkers who live near busy roads, and they are the region's fastest-growing source of greenhouse gases. I look forward to working with my fellow commission members to advance effective, practical and fair congestion relief that delivers real results for cleaner air, better transit and the region's economy."

The New York City Traffic Congestion Mitigation Commission is charged with reviewing and studying plans to reduce traffic congestion and other related health and safety issues within New York City. The commission will conduct hearings; take testimony; review information and proposals regarding traffic congestion in the city; and make recommendations on implementing a final plan, which it must approve on or before January 31, 2008.