MTA votes to increase mass transit fares and tolls
NEW YORK (WABC) -- The MTA has approved its financial plan that includes fare and toll hikes that could take effect next August.
The agency declined to say how much the fares and tolls would increase but it is expected the approx 4% increase will raise the base fare to $3.
Drivers will already increases in the cost of commute in the coming year with the implementation of congestion pricing on January 5, 2025.
The MTA is moving full speed ahead for congestion pricing to start, but acknowledges multiple pending lawsuits
"At this stage, we just have to run through the process. We are dealing with all of them and we are very preparex," MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said. "It is probably not useful to express any opinion about the outcome. I'm going to let the judges decide it. We've done all the work and we are confident. We are doing everything in our power to make sure our public has full information and we think that's the most important proof of our commitment to execute this, both fairly and effectively."
Subway and bus fares last increased 15 cents in August 2023, which sent the price from $2.75 to $2.90. Fares did not increase in 2021 after New York Governor Kathy Hochul said the subway system needed to lure more riders following the pandemic.
Meanwhile, community members in Chinatown and the Lower East Side are calling on Governor Hochul to stop congestion pricing.
Tenants, workers and small business owners argued the plan will have a negative impact on the area.
The revised congestion pricing plan will cost $9 for most vehicles traveling through Manhattan below 60th Street starting January 5th.
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