State Holds Public Hearings On MTA Rescue Plan
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Albany lawmakers are seeking the public's input as they consider a plan to rescue the financially troubled MTA.
State senators held the first of several public hearings Wednesday on the recommendations of the Ravitch Commission.
The plan, which includes a new payroll tax and tolls on the East River and Harlem River bridges, would avert the need for a massive fare hike and service cuts later this year.
The MTA says the plan would fully fund its own five-year capital program.
"This package is a robust package and would enable us to carry the MTA, both on the operating and the capital side, for the next five years," said MTA Executive Director & CEO Elliot "Lee" Sander.
The MTA says it will move forward with fare hikes and service cuts if Albany does not take action by March 25.
Another public hearing will be held Thursday at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem, beginning at 3 p.m.