Asked by reporters last Wednesday about the possibility of a NYC subway and bus fare hike, Mayor Bloomberg said “I don’t think there’s any question, the MTA, their finances are public, and they’re strapped, and the unions that represent their workers are asking for a lot more money.”

“I think in the fall they’re going to have to make some tough decisions. Do they raise fees or not?” said the mayor, according to the Associated Press.

A spokesperson for Governor Pataki, who appoints the majority of the MTA board, said the fare had remained stable since 1995, the longest stretch in recent history, and noted that MetroCard discounts had lowered fares for many. 

Albany Thumbs Up for "2002-2004" MTA Plan (March 4, 2002)

Pataki Budget Meets Promise on Fares
(Jan. 28, 2002)

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