Statement From New York Governor David A. Paterson Regarding MTA Fare Hikes

March 25, 2009 -- “Today is a difficult day for the millions of New Yorkers who depend on our mass transit system. This morning the Board of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) voted to raise fares for commuters, and significantly cut public transportation services. New York is facing its worst financial crisis in decades, and at a time when our colleagues and neighbors are losing their jobs and their homes, we cannot sit passively and allow the failure of a system that serves 8.5 million people each day. Though we did not create this problem, it is our duty to solve it.

“Last year I appointed a commission, lead by former MTA Chairman Richard Ravitch, to address the MTA’s fiscal crisis head-on, and create a long-term funding plan. The commission's recommendations, which are now the basis of my proposed legislation, have the broad support of commuter, business, labor and environmental groups. During this legislative session I have urged the adoption of this fair and comprehensive plan to avoid fare hikes and service disruptions for so many New Yorkers. This plan would prevent our mass transit system from falling into disrepair and returning to the mistakes of the past – which we cannot allow. This plan asks all who benefit from the MTA to share the burden during these difficult times and has broad support among the groups most affected. I know my colleagues in the State Legislature are equally committed to preserving New York’s critical public transportation system, and we will continue to work together until we reach a final agreement.”

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Source: New York Governor