Mobilizing the Region
Issue 78May 10, 1996


Capital Transit Trouble

NY State Assembly member David Gantt has called on the Pataki administration to stop withholding surplus Mass Transit Operating Assistance (MTOA) account funds from strapped upstate mass transit authorities. The current MTOA balance--$18 million--could be used to avoid service reductions and fare hikes, says Gannt, but the Administration has proposed keeping the funds for the state's general account. The upstate agencies face a combined shortfall of less than $12 million.

Gannt's rally may be too late for Albany. Fare hikes approved last month by the Capital District Transportation Authority went into effect in Albany this week. While the base fare of $1 remains the same, half-fare senior citizen and disabled discounts for peak travel times were eliminated. Fares for longer zones rose 5¢, and charges for Swiper Cards will rise between $2 and $5 in June. CDTA officials blamed federal funding cuts, dropping ridership and large deficits. Seniors and the disabled represent nearly 15% of daily bus boardings in the District. Times Union


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