Union leaders protest planned NJT fare hikes, service cuts
Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-Chief
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s declared intention to slash $32.7 million from New Jersey Transit’s state operating support could drive train and bus fares up 20% to 30% and exact severe service cuts, according to labor leaders who have met with NJT officials to protest the plan.
The cutbacks, if enacted, would take place in June. Public hearings would be held across the state prior to the move.
NJ Transit said it would announce more specifics following the regular monthly meeting of its Board of Directors Wednesday. “We expect the executive director to talk in detail about NJ Transit’s budget challenges for fiscal year 2010 and 2011,” an NJ Transit spokeswoman said. “The budget plans have not been finalized and there will be a process for public input on how to balance the budget.”
Even before the governor’s announced intent, fare increases already were being contemplated due to a projected $200 million gap in NJ Transit’s fiscal year 2011 budget. New Jersey’s fiscal year begins on July 1.
