Public Outcry Over Proposed Fare Increase by the MTA

Residents expressed fierce dissatisfaction with the transit agency’s plan to raise subway and bus fares to $3, effective January 4, 2026, at a public hearing. Critics, including daily commuters, labeled the MTA as “greedy” and questioned the necessity of the hike amidst ongoing system issues.

During the session, some speakers condemned the current state of the subway, citing flooding, frequent delays, and safety concerns. One commuter, Emmanuel Vasquez, criticized the proposed increase, saying, “Your entire plan is bulls–t,” and questioned the logic behind raising fares to three dollars amid the disrepair.

Others highlighted the inconsistency of a fare hike in an unreliable system riddled with flooding, fare evasion, and service delays. Lynette Rushmore voiced frustration, stating, “I’m tired of being tired,” pointing to persistent issues like fare jumpers and ineffective station upgrades.

Fares evasion remains a problem, with rates slightly falling to 9.8% from 13.6% last year, despite new anti-evasion measures like spikes and metal shields at station entrances. Some commuters explained that fare evasion is a response to the high costs and inadequate service quality.

Many critics argue that the fare hike does little to address the deeper issues within the transit system. Resident Serenjo Persaud called the agency “the most inefficient and greedy” he’s seen, citing daily delays and malfunctions. Kristian Joseph of the “Fare Ain’t Fare Group” presented a petition with around 2,000 signatures opposing the increase, emphasizing the burden on working-class residents facing rising living costs.

At the last board meeting, some officials minimized the impact, describing the 4.4% increase as a gradual and inflation-considerate adjustment. Meanwhile, tolls on bridges and tunnels are also set to rise from $6.94 to $7.46, adding further expenses for drivers.

Mayor Eric Adams criticized the increase, describing current fares as “already too high,” and urged rejection of the plan. Critics argue that without significant improvements in services, the increase is unjustifiable and adds hardship on residents already impacted by congestion and toll hikes.