What Do You Think About Rail Price Hikes?

STAMFORD, Conn. — Tell the state Department of Transportation what you think about a looming 16.4 percent rise in Metro-North fares. You'll get your chance at a public hearing Tuesday, Aug. 23, at UConn Stamford. 

The increase goes into effect Nov. 1, and there will be an additional 1 percent hike every year from 2013 to 2018, a press release said. The transportation agency also proposes cutting service to Connecticut's Shore Line East on weekends to lower costs, the release said.

Bus fares are slated to increase 10 percent on Nov. 1 in Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, Waterbury, New Britain, Meriden, Bristol and Wallingford, the release said. Increases will be as follows: The local fare will rise from $1.25 to $1.35, senior and disabled from $.60 to $.65, and people with disabilities from $2.50 to $2.70, the release said.

There will be two sessions for people to voice their opinions in UConn Stamford’s Auditorium, the release said. The first will be from 4 to 6 p.m., the second from 7 to 9 p.m.

Comments can also be emailed to the Department of Transportation, or send by regular mail to the Bureau of Public Transportation, 2800 Berlin Turnpike, PO Box 317546, Newington, CT  06131-7546.

What do you think of the proposed fare increases? Will you be going to the Aug. 23 hearing? 

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