A rescue plan was presented today for the region’s subways, buses and commuter railroads that includes a new “mobility tax” on payrolls in the region; tolls on the free East River and Harlem River bridges; a much smaller fare and toll increase than the cash-strapped authority has threatened; few service reductions; and improvements in bus service.
The plan would permit automatic, inflation-adjusted fare and toll increases every two years without public hearings, ending the “political circus.” The plan would allow for a state takeover of the city-owned Harlem River and East River bridges, which have historically been free to drivers. The new tolls would be collected electronically, without toll booths.
“The MTA’s subway, buses and commuter trains are the lifeline of the region, bringing people to their jobs, schools, doctors and community organizations. Yet the system is facing a crisis of epic proportions,” said Gov. Paterson.
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December 5th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
Creating tolls on previously free bridges may promote the use of public transportation further increasing MTA’s income which will eventually increase the quality of public transportation.