City Council Member Vanessa L. Gibson (D-Bronx, 16th CD) is calling upon the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to reconsider two proposals that would force riders to pay higher fares for using the MTA’s buses and trains. She is also urging Bronx families to “let their voices and concerns be heard” at a public hearing the MTA has scheduled for December 1st at Hostos Community College.
“MTA fare increases that tighten the screws on already tight family budgets have the effect of devaluing the public transit services that tens of thousands of Bronx families depend on each and every day,” Council Member Gibson said on Wednesday. “We need to ensure that public transit has the critical resources it needs to provide essential services put we shouldn’t do that by picking the pockets of those who can least afford higher fares.”
“Clearly public transit needs sufficient revenue to maintain a safe and accessible system and the MTA is under the financial gun as it seeks to provide services that are essential to so many New Yorkers,” Council Member Gibson said. “I support developing strategies that will enhance the state’s commitment to public transit and look forward to working with the MTA to get the results the riding public needs and deserves.”
“However, in the interim, I urge the MTA to defer any fare increase or reductions in service until those efforts have an opportunity to bear fruit and also urge families throughout the Bronx to let their voices and concerns be heard,” Council Member Gibson said.
The MTA’s Bronx public hearing on the two fare increase options being considered is being held in the Main Theater at Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture located at 450 Grand Concourse on the corner of Grand Concourse and 149th Street. The registration period is from 4 – 8pm and the hearing begins at 5pm.
Follow Us