Metro Faces Drastic Cuts: Fare Hikes, Layoffs, and Reduced Services

Metro has released a budget proposal outlining drastic cuts to address a projected $750 million deficit in its operating budget for the next fiscal year. Without additional funding, the proposal includes eliminating 67 bus lines, reducing service on 41 others, closing 10 least-used stations, ending Metrorail service at 10 p.m., increasing fares and parking fees by 20 percent, and eliminating nearly 2,300 jobs. Metro officials warn that these cuts would result in reduced service quality, dirtier stations, and longer response times. Jurisdictions that fund Metro agree that more money is needed, but there is no clear solution to the deficit.