What you should know
- The MTA announced that under the possible increases, the base fare of $2.75 would increase to $2.90. Meanwhile, a monthly pass that currently costs $127 would go up to $132.
- The MTA’s proposed increase would also affect tolls. If the EZ Pass costs $6.55 each way, the proposed increase would exceed $7. The railways will face similar increases: between 4 and 5%.
- Monday is the last time the public can speak about these potential fare increases during a public hearing before the MTA votes in July.
NEW YORK — This Monday is the final public hearing to discuss potential transit fare increases proposed by the MTA that, if approved, could increase costs for the first time since the practice was placed on hiatus in the pandemic. to increase prices every two years.
The MTA announced that under the possible increases, the base fare of $2.75 would increase to $2.90. Meanwhile, a monthly pass that currently costs $127 would go up to $132.
The agency says the potential increase is “moderate.” In addition, he pointed out that it could have been worse if it were not for a state-funded multibillion-dollar bailout to balance the budget.
According to the MTA, after a hiatus during the pandemic, they are resuming the practice of adopting fare and toll increases every two years to keep up with rising inflation.
“This fare income is critical, but it only covers a portion of our operating costs,” said MTA Deputy Chief Financial Officer Jai Patel.
While MTA officials tried to craft what the fare increases would cover, riders at public hearings aren’t convinced that paying more will get results.
“The rate hike is a big farce,” said one attendee at the public meeting.
The MTA’s proposed increase would also affect tolls. If your EZ Pass costs $6.55 each way, the proposed increase would be more than $7. The railways will face similar increases: between 4 and 5%.
Monday is the last time the public can speak about these potential fare increases before the MTA votes in July. If approved, the rates would go into effect possibly by Labor Day weekend.
