Connecticut Plans Significant Fare Hike for Metro North Railroad
Connecticut is looking to impose a substantial 10% fare increase for Metro North Railroad riders. This coming Monday, the Metropolitan Transportation Agency (MTA) is expected to move forward with the proposal, despite labeling it as “scary” and “exorbitant.”
The Connecticut Department of Transportation is suggesting a 5% fare increase now, followed by another 5% increase by next July. This has stirred support among MTA board members during recent discussions.
“A 10% increase is quite alarming,” expressed MTA board member David Mack at a recent committee meeting. “It feels like we’re digging our own graves, yet I’ll vote for it to bring it to the full board.”
While some committee members signaled their backing, they also voiced concerns about potential backlash from Connecticut officials regarding the proposal.
Board member Neil Zuckerman shared his frustration. “Honestly, I’m upset about the 10% increase,” he explained, pointing out that the MTA typically opts for smaller, more predictable fare adjustments. He added, “Connecticut’s fare structure is starting to resemble our neighbors in southern New Jersey, and I struggle with double-digit increases… I personally fear this steep hike will reflect poorly on me.”
The rationale behind this fare increase is to address rising costs, necessitating approval from both New York and the MTA. The full MTA board will deliberate and vote on the matter in their upcoming meeting on Wednesday.
The current plan suggests that one-way tickets between New Haven and Stamford would jump from $8.75 to $9.50 during peak hours by next summer. Additionally, trips from Stamford to Grand Central Station would rise from $16 to $17.75.
According to state officials, the only way to sustain train services is through fare increases. A spokesperson for the DOT explained that the state’s recent budget, which was approved in June, has left financial shortfalls impacting the rail service.
“To prevent service cuts, CTDOT has proposed a fare hike to keep our current train offerings intact,” the spokesperson noted, adding that these increases will help maintain service levels for passengers over the next two fiscal years.
