New Yorkers to Weigh In at MTA Public Hearings on Fare and Toll Hikes

By BoroPark24 Staff

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is holding two public hearings today, Wednesday, on its proposed fare and toll increases, giving New Yorkers another chance to weigh in on an issue that has already stirred strong pushback from riders across the city.

The hearings, taking place at 130 Livingston Street in Brooklyn from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., will feature testimony from commuters, advocacy groups, and concerned residents. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber and other agency leaders are expected to hear directly from the public.

The proposals, if adopted, would raise the base subway and bus fare from $2.90 to $3. Commuters on the LIRR and Metro-North, as well as drivers using bridges and tunnels like the Verrazzano and RFK, would also see higher costs, with additional increases already projected for 2027 and 2029.

At Tuesday’s first hearing, riders voiced frustration that they are being asked to pay more while still experiencing chronic delays, infrastructure issues, and overcrowding. Some shared personal stories of financial hardship and called for improvements to the system before any new hikes are approved.

Although a few speakers expressed support for the plan, saying modest increases are needed to keep the system running, the overwhelming tone was one of skepticism and opposition.

The MTA board is expected to vote on the fare and toll changes this fall. Until then, hearings like today’s give New Yorkers the opportunity to make their voices heard.