MTA Board Approves Fare and Toll Increases, Effective August
New York City – The Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) Board has given the green light to fare and toll hikes, set to take effect in August. Commuters relying on the Metro-North and Long Island Railroads will face a 4.3% increase in fares, but there is some reprieve for monthly ticket holders, who will be entitled to a 10% discount.
Additionally, the city ticket, previously limited to off-peak trains, will now include peak train rides for a fee of $7. Bus and subway fares will also see a lift, rising by 15 cents from the current $2.75 to $2.90. These fare hikes are a result of soaring operational costs, according to MTA Chairman Janno Lieber. The hope is that the higher fares will help maintain and improve service quality.
However, the fare increases have sparked a polarized response among Long Islanders. Some residents support the cost rise, believing that it will result in more efficient public transportation services. Others, however, are opposed to the hikes, arguing that it burdens already financially strained commuters.
In addition to commuting costs, toll increases are set to hit drivers as well. EZ Pass tolls for the Whitestone Bridge and the Verrazano Bridge will surge by 5.5%. Furthermore, the implementation of congestion pricing in the city will further escalate driving expenses, making it more costly for motorists to navigate the city’s streets.
On a more positive note, the Long Island Railroad plans to conduct a trial run of a new ticket specifically designed for Far Rockaway commuters. This initiative aims to improve the convenience and efficiency of the ticketing system for these particular travelers.
The fare and toll adjustments are scheduled to take effect on August 6th for tolls and August 20th for mass transit. The MTA hopes that these rate increases, albeit unpopular, will help maintain and improve the overall functionality of the city’s transportation system.
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