Every day, my workmate Mykola and I take the bus to get to our work. This daily commute, which is a reality for many people, has been severely impacted due to the escalating cost of bus fares. Not long ago, bus fares were always $2.00, a fair price for many, allowing millions to move around and reach their destinations easily. However, with the constant fare hikes, this routine journey has become a burden for many of us. It is paramount to understand that public transportation is a lifeline - it's not just about commuting, but about making services and opportunities accessible.

A study by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) in 2019 showed that every $1 invested in public transit generates approximately $5 in economic returns. Additionally, it supports employment by creating more than 50,000 jobs per billion dollars invested. By keeping the bus fares at an affordable level, we can ensure that everyone benefits - the commuters, the economy and the environment.

It is time to call for a change. We believe our cities should serve everyone equally. By standardizing the bus fare to a fair cost of $2.00, we foster inclusivity, support our local economies, and give everyone the right to move freely. Please join us in calling for uniform bus fares. Sign this petition today to make $2.00 bus fare a reality again.