The MBTA is proposing a 6.3% fare hike that, if passed, would go into effect in July 2019. This increase in public transit cost would, according to the MBTA, allow for system investments to improve service.
At public meetings across the city, residents are speaking out against the hike, expressing frustration about increasing prices for a system that is often delayed. Opponents also add that this would create a hardship for low income and senior riders.
City Councilor Michelle Wu takes it one step further, suggesting the MBTA should be free for all riders. She argues that every person should have the right to mobility without financial barriers. Wu also points to the environmental benefits of getting more people on free public transit, and less people driving their own vehicles.
MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak presents the other side, saying the price hike is reasonable and fair. The MBTA has not raised fares since 2016, and the proposed increase is in line with the rate of inflation in Boston. You can read more from the MBTA proposal and submit your feedback here.
What do you think? Which way should MBTA fares move on the price scale, if at all? Vote in our poll and add your comments in the section below.
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I’d love to see the MBTA free but if it came down to changing the prices Id say make the subway $1.70 like before the bus/silver line service $1.00 and make the Commuter Rail free for all.
Although the fares don’t pay for all transit systems problems, they do defray the cost for the citizens. Free MBTA passes may entice people to not drive into the city, which would be ideal. However, I think if a study were to be carried out, we would see that it’s more complicated than just ‘freeing’ up the MBTA. Outside funds would be needed.
See the comment in the previous post regarding the MTA retirement plan. We are locked into fare increases. Those pensions will go on for decades and with interest rates low for who knows how long, your fares will have to cover the cost of pensioners. Then there are the costs of an aging system.
In addition to the delays, trains that break down, some filthy trains, busses and stations the homeless related issues are worse than they have ever been.People panhandling, urinating and assaults. Channel 5 just did a story on the situation this morning citing a spike in incidents involving the issues the T is having with the homeless population. Before you can ask for a fair increase you have to improve the product. They should pay the commuter to take a train or a bus.