Many Long Islanders are apprehensive about the possible privatization of public roads and bridges.

Officials say Governor Pataki (R-NY) has hinted at what he calls "transportation development partnerships" to help pay for projects the state can?t afford. Experts say the state has $70 billion in proposed projects, including the Long Island Rail Road?s East Side access, the JFK Airport Rail link, the Second Avenue Subway line and the Tappan Zee Bridge. However, critics say privatization could include collecting tolls or fares.

Mitch Pally, vice president of the Long Island Association, says no projects have been proposed on the Island, and adds he would be surprised if there ever was one. Officials say an Australian bank has already proposed taking over the Tappan Zee Bridge, by assuming the cost of building a new bridge and collecting tolls.