Controversy over MBTA fare hikes, cutbacks
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The T's first fare increase in five years was voted 4-1 by the MBTA Board, which also included some service cuts.
Some of the changes include raising most subway fare by 30 cents, bus fares 25 cents, and commuter rail fares by $1.25 or more, starting July 1.
With debt payments, energy costs, and door-to-door service for the disabled driving up the T’s expenses at a rapid rate, the MBTA faced a $160 million deficit, despite record ridership.
Officials warned that the plan is just a one-year fix, with future deficits looming -- unless Beacon Hill approves new taxes to alleviate some of the T’s debt burden.