Thompson To MTA: Delay Fare Hike

City Comptroller Bill Thompson joined together with a coalition of elected officials today on the steps of City Hall to urge the MTA to reconsider a proposed transit fare hike and to urge Albany to rework the budget to give the City its fair share of transit funding.

"We are here today because riders deserve a subway, bus, and rail system that is the best in the world. As New Yorkers, it seems that every day we hear about yet another increase, rising costs that make it more difficult to make ends meet, to put food on the table, and to get to work and home each day,” Thompson said. “Before New Yorkers are asked to dip into their pockets and pocketbooks, we are asking the MTA to not rush ahead prematurely.”

Two months ago, Thompson's office issued a report that identified $728 million dollars in revenue sources that could be applied to eliminate the need for a fare increase in 2008 and 2009. The comptroller stated that the State must provide additional funding to the MTA for transit improvements before any fare hike is considered.

“If the State and City step up their commitments to New York City Transit and the economy remains relatively strong, I believe that any fare and toll increases can be delayed for some time,” said Thompson.

For more New York political coverage visit [City Hall News].