The transit agency says it needs more state and federal support to meet its operating costs and avoid a growing budget gap.
Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) riders in the San Francisco Bay will see a 5.5 percent increase in fares starting on January 1, reports Aidin Vaziri for The San Francisco Chronicle.
According to Vaziri, “BART officials say the increase is essential to support ongoing operations and to address a growing budget deficit, which is projected to reach $35 million by 2026 and balloon to $385 million by 2027.” The agency continues to rely on fares as an important source of revenue, but that model has become largely unsustainable.
Like other transit leaders around the country, BART officials are calling on state and federal governments to support public transit with more dedicated funding. “As part of its strategy to balance the budget, BART is also focusing on cost-saving measures, such as more efficient scheduling and reduced train sizes to lower operational expenses.”
FULL STORY: BART announces another fare hike as agency struggles with budget woes
BART Closes $35 Million Deficit
Cost control and revenue generation measures prevented service cuts.
San Francisco’s BART Awarded $545 Loan for Upgraded Rail Cars
The agency plans to modernize its fleet with more efficient rail cars equipped with new safety features.
BART Will Run Shorter Trains
The agency says shorter trains will enable them to increase security, retire aging cars, and save on energy costs.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.
Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.
From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
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New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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