The MTA’s Proposals for 2013 Fare Hikes

This week the MTA unveiled its plans to raise fares and tolls by about 7% in 2013. The subway and bus fare plans (pictured above) offer a general outline of what is likely to come. Monthly MetroCard users could face an increase of between $4 and $21, and the base fare could rise to $2.50 or $2.75, with the potential loss of a bonus for a purchase of $10 or more on a MetroCard. The exact numbers will likely fall somewhere in between the above plans, though every proposal includes the new $1 surcharge for purchasing a new MetroCard, to try to encourage people to refill existing cards, reducing litter and costs.

If you wish to make your voice heard on this issue, there will be several public hearings across the city. Brooklyn’s hearing will take place November 7 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge at 333 Adams Street. You’re asked to register a time to speak at the public hearing by calling 718-521-3333 between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.

The MTA board expects to vote on the proposal hike on December 19, and the changes would go into effect in March, 2013.