A deal struck between Governor Cuomo and Mayor Bloomberg will greatly expand taxi service to the outer boroughs beginning in the New Year. The plan — to be signed into law by Cuomo on Wednesday — calls for the city to sell 18,000 permits allowing a new class of roof-lighted livery cabs to pick up passengers in underserved areas that many cabbies treat like the seventh circle of hell. The agreement, which is likely to face some legal opposition from yellow cab fleet owners, would make one-fifth of the new cabs wheelchair accessible, and would also provide millions in subsidies and loans to encourage drivers to buy vehicles that accommodate disabled riders. Yes, Brooklynites — the taxis are coming! The taxis are coming!
