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.”
