B31 and Local Buses, Saved for Now… via Payroll Tax

The state Legislature Wednesday night passed an MTA bailout to rescue millions of daily straphangers and drivers from a toxic mix of fare hikes and service cuts. The transit-funding package will generate some $2.3 billion annually for the cash-strapped Metropolitan Transportation Authority with a payroll tax and other revenue-raising measures - including a 50-cent surcharge on all yellow-cab rides. Read more: Albany to the rescue: Legislators derail doomsday, pass MTA bailout Legislative highlights: * A single-ride MetroCard will be $2.25, not $2.50; * The pay-per-ride discount will be 20% when you buy $7.50 or more; * A 30-day MetroCard will be $89, not $103; * Fare increases on LIRR and MetroNorth will be about 10%, as opposed to the 25%-70% hikes in the MTA Doomsday budget; * The Doomsday service cuts will not happen, maintaining current levels of service; * Two years worth of capital funding will ensure the MTA has the basic resources needed to continue to rebuild the system. Post from: GerritsenBeach.net