Recently, the MTA announced a fare increase in New York City. While this increase is certainly not fair, NICE Bus must prevent a fare increase on Long Island. Over the past year, service cuts have far surpassed increases in service. NICE provided approximately 9.5% fewer miles of service and 10.5% fewer hours of service than in 2011. Because of these service cuts, ridership had dropped, and more bus riders are dissatisfied with the bus system.

For working people who take the bus three times a day, this fare increase equals about $300 additional dollars a year on bus service. The fare increase is not just an adjustment due to inflation, but is systematically making bus riders pay more and more money for bus service.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 states that access to public transportation is a right. As bus routes continue to decrease and fares continue to increase, we are taking away this right from bus riders. We deserve better. Please prevent a fare increase from going into effect for NICE Bus.