Passenger Bus, Rail and Motorcoach Industry News

The agency is attempting to close an $800 million budget gap. The hike follows increases in 2008 and 2009.

After listening to customers and rail advocates protest a proposed 25 percent fare increase at a recent public hearing, transit officials will adjust plans for raising fares.

The association’s latest report, "Impacts of the Recession on Public Transportation Agencies", shows that since Jan. 1, 2009, 84 percent of public transit systems have raised fares, cut service or are considering either of those actions. Fifty-nine percent of public transit systems reported that they have already cut service or raised fares.

Two subway lines will be eliminated, and a 7.5 percent fare increase is planned for next year. Service cuts will save the authority approximately $93 million.

Transportation for America’s informal audit highlights 51 communities across the U.S. that are considering eliminating jobs, cutting service and raising fares, but will receive no assistance under the current recovery proposal to prevent the cuts.