The following is a statement by Jack D. Hidary, Chairman of the Coalition Advocating for Smart Transportation (CAST):

"Today New York became the first city in the nation -- and I believe the world -- to adopt less-polluting, energy-efficient hybrids as a standard vehicle for taxis. It demonstrates the continued leadership of New York as the world's capital.

"Today New Yorkers can take a deep breath of relief and worry less about what's filling their lungs.

"By ensuring that hybrid models can become part of the city's taxi fleet within 90 days, this critically important legislation alleviates myriad problems -- air pollution, asthma, high fuel costs, dependence on foreign oil -- associated with traditional taxis, which comprise nearly 30 percent of vehicles below 96th Street in Manhattan.

"In a recent poll, we asked New Yorkers whether they want hybrid taxis -- and the answer was a resounding yes. I congratulate the City Council for listening to their constituents.

CAST (http://www.smarttransportation.org) is dedicated to improving the health of New Yorkers through smart transportation solutions. We are a coalition of health, civic and environmental organizations working together to improve our lives through such innovations as hybrid taxis and buses.