Former NY guv David Paterson nominated to MTA board

Gov. Andrew Cuomo nominated his predecessor, former Gov. David Paterson, to the MTA's board Monday.

If approved by the state Senate, Paterson would take over for Nancy Shevell, Paul McCartney's new wife.

"Governor Paterson has dedicated his life to working for the people of this state and I am excited that he will continue his public service at the MTA," Cuomo said in a statement.

MTA chief Joseph Lhota said Paterson "will bring a unique and practical perspective, particularly with respect to issues affecting minority communities and disabled New Yorkers."

Paterson could not be reached for comment Monday.

Gene Russianoff of the Straphangers Campaign said he hoped Paterson would help the cash-strapped agency get more money.

"The former governor will add badly needed diversity to the MTA board," he said, adding that he hoped the board would become "more sensitive to the needs of African Americans and the disabled, among others."