All articles tagged with #fare hikes
The MTA has revised its proposed fare increases for January, reducing some hikes like the seven-day cap and extending ticket usability, after receiving significant public feedback, while maintaining other increases such as the single ride fare and canceling a proposed Metro-North service increase.
Metro is likely to avoid severe cuts after D.C., Maryland, and Virginia leaders pledged nearly half a billion dollars to make up for the transit system's budget shortfall. However, higher fares are expected, with proposed fare increases of 12.5 percent for both Metrorail and Metrobus, as well as fare hikes of up to 25 percent on late nights and weekends. The funding infusion would prevent station closures and major bus service cuts, but Metro will still need to take significant steps to close its remaining budget gap, including diverting preventive maintenance funds for operations and implementing a salary and wage freeze for managers and employees in two of its largest unions in fiscal year 2025.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy's legacy of tax cuts for the middle class is at risk as plans for fare hikes, tax increases, and transit funding loom. The proposed 15% fare increase for New Jersey Transit has drawn criticism from both Republicans and Democrats, with concerns about the impact on middle-class residents. Murphy's administration is also considering raising the gas tax and sales tax to boost transit funding, sparking further debate. The governor's approach to transit has faced scrutiny, with opponents questioning his commitment to curbing climate change and supporting public transit.
NJ Transit is proposing a significant 15% fare hike and the elimination of its pandemic-era discount program to address a looming budget deficit, with MTA chairman Janno Lieber criticizing New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy for the transit budget chaos. The fare increase, which could take effect in July, would only provide temporary relief as NJ Transit is projected to face a $767 million budget deficit next year. Murphy has sued the federal government and MTA to halt New York's congestion toll program, which aims to raise funds for MTA upgrades. Transit advocates and officials have expressed disappointment in the fare hike and the lack of alternative solutions explored.
New York City commuters are bracing for fare hikes on MTA subways and buses starting Sunday, with subway fares increasing from $2.75 to $2.90. The first fare hike in seven years has left frustrated commuters feeling the strain of rising costs, with monthly MetroCards now costing $132 and single-ride tickets increasing to $3.25. Transit advocates are calling for additional subsidies for those in need, while congestion pricing is set to be implemented in 2024, adding further expenses for Manhattan drivers.
Starting Sunday, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York City is implementing fare hikes on subways, buses, and trains. The base fare for a subway or bus ride will increase from $2.75 to $2.90, while a 7-day pass will cost $34 and a 30-day unlimited pass will cost $132. Express bus fares will rise from $6.75 to $7. The fare hikes, the first in eight years, were approved by the MTA board to keep up with inflation and fund operational costs. New Yorkers have mixed reactions, with some expressing concerns about the increased expenses and others hoping the additional revenue will be used to improve infrastructure.
Metro is facing a $750 million budget gap in its operating budget due to inflation and the impact of the pandemic on ridership. Without new funding, the transit agency may have to make devastating service cuts, including longer wait times for trains and a system that closes at 9:30 every night, as well as slashing thousands of positions. Metro is the only major transit system without a dedicated source of funding and is in talks with local governors and D.C.'s mayor to find a solution.