MTA approves fare hikes for subways, buses, rails
NEW YORK -- The base price of public transit in the city is going up for the first time in nearly a decade.
The MTA approved new increases on Wednesday, and they are going to impact every form of transportation.
The cost of commuting is increasing for everything from subways and buses, to the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North and the tolls at bridges and tunnels.
From the subway platform to the MTA boardroom, riders bristled at the idea of paying more.
"Help us out. Don't harm us. Vote no on the proposal," one man said.
"I think the increase in unfair. I think transit is too high," Troy Chapman said.
But their cries were ultimately unsuccessful at swaying MTA leadership, which voted unanimously Wednesday to raise prices across the board.
"The requirement for us to make sure that we maintain forward progress for a safe and reliable system demands that we do take this vote," board member Sherif Soliman said.
For the first time in eight years, the base fare for subways and buses is increasing -- from $2.75 to $2.90.
Other increases include:
- A seven-day ticket will be increased $1 to $34.
- A 30-day unlimited ride MetroCard will be increased by $5 to $132.
- Express bus fare will be raised to $7.
- A seven-day Express bus ticket will be raised to $64.
Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North passengers will feel the pinch, too. Monthly and weekly tickets will increase by up to 4.5%.
The MTA is also increasing toll rates by 6% for customers using an in-state E-ZPass and by 10% for those out-of-state.
Some commuters were more understanding than others.
"I would prefer it not to go up because at this point in my life I'm on a fixed income. However, I do see a lot of improvement going on and I appreciate it. I am seeing where the money is being put," said Elizabeth Huertas of Long Island.
MTA officials called the hikes modest and reasonable, adding the money will be used to fund operational costs such as wage increases for workers.
"It's a resumption of the historic pattern of small fare increases every few years so people can plan on it, so it doesn't suddenly blow anybody up," MTA CEO Janno Lieber said.
Toll increases on bridges and tunnels will go into effect first on Aug. 6. Then on Aug. 20, fare increases will go into effect on subways, buses, and commuter railroads.