(February 23, 1999): Media reports indicate that another fare increase is in the works for riders of Metro-North in CT. While there's been contradictory reporting on this move, I've spoken with officials at CDOT and Metro-North and here's what we know at present:
CDOT did start the paperwork moving for a fare increase by making a formal request of the MTA Board, which rubber-stamped its approval this week.
CDOT says there are no plans yet for public hearings and any fare increase probably wouldn't happen until the summer of '99
We are uncertain of the details of any planned fare increase... the amount, whether it would affect both intra-state (within CT) and inter-state (to NY) riders, and an effective date. When we receive specifics we'll share them.
There was supposed to have been a 4.5% fare increase January 1st of this year, but it was delayed because of cost savings and revenue gains (achieved by increased ridership). When the Commuter Council queried CDOT last Fall about a 1/1/99 increase we were told that an increase wasn't planned for then, but as for later.....???
Whether in January, June or some other later date, another fare increase request seems inevitable. When public hearings are scheduled, we will let you know and urge your participation. In the past, such hearings have been poorly attended and as such, commuter apathy was seen as approval of planned fare jumps.
The Council will receive a presentation from CDOT and MN on any planned fare increase, will review the plans and will vote to either endorse or oppose the request. We will then testify at all public hearings and reach out to the media to share our views.
What can you do now? Not much, until we know more specifics about the proposal. Its hard to battle (or embrace) an invisible target. As soon as we have more details, we will be in touch.
