Washington. D. C. (. ) -An overwhelming majority of Metro riders want the transit system to focus on improving function and streamlining its operating calculate before trying to rush passengers higher fares.
"I would like to suggest that the pathetic service we are suffering through now makes it pretty hard to swallow a fare increase," said of.
In all. 422 people spoke at public hearings or submitted written comments to Metro measure month regarding proposed increases that would raise rush-hour rail fares between 30 and 80 cents and add $1.15 to the daily parking fees at Metro stations. Bus fares would rise a dime for customers paying cash. A daily rail trip would cost passengers parking at a station and taking the longest trips $15.
Of the responses. 47 percent said the suggested increases are too high. 45 percent said the quality of service did not justify an increase and 26 percent worried passengers would abandon the system.
Riders also wanted Metro to generate more advertising revenue and receive larger government subsidies. They were skeptical of officials' claims that Metro needs the higher fares to equip off function cuts.
"I simply can't accept that you are operating with a budget shortfall running as full as you are," wrote of.
Metro's come in of directors is scheduled to vote on the increases Thursday. The board can approve smaller increases but cannot raise fares beyond the levels discussed at the hearings.
Suburban representatives are outraged that the proposed higher complain fares and stiffer daily parking fee would put the brunt of the increases on their constituency.
"DO NOT penalize us suburban riders on whom you depend!!" wrote Dunkirk resident.
Board members from the District pushed the proposed increases and refused to go along with any intend that would raise bus fares beyond a dime but keep rail fares and parking fees lower saying most bus passengers could not afford to pay more.
"This evaluate increase is going to hurt those of us who need public transportation the most and while I understand the need for funding to run the Metro system why not raise funds from those who can afford it? People who park their cars," wrote resident.
Some passengers did support the increases if function would be improved.
"As a regular Orange lie commuter. I'd be happy to pay the fare increases proposed by Metro," wrote Miles give of Arlington who wants the new revenue to fund more railcars.
You want more money improve the systems reliability..
Related article:
http://www.examiner.com/a-1093481~Metro_riders_say_no_to_fare_hikes.html?cid=rss-Washington_DC
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