Metro is conducting the fourth installment of its “we’re raising prices and cutting service” roadshow in Arlington tonight. Metro, which is facing a staggering $189 million budget gap for the fiscal year starting July 1, has already held three of its six public hearings on its plan to close the gap.
Tonight’s hearing, to be held at 7:00 in the county board room (on the third floor of 2100 Clarendon Boulevard), is the only hearing planned for Arlington.
Among the proposals Metro is considering, which are up for public comment tonight:
- Across-the-board fare increases for Metrorail, Metrobus and MetroAccess
- Eliminate or reduce bus service on 100 lines (including a reduction on the 10B line, above)
- Establishment of a peak-of-the-peak surcharge
- Increase in parking fees and elimination of free parking times
- $4.00 flat rate for weekend late night rail service -or- ending rail service at midnight on Friday and Saturday
- Institute a special fare of up to five times the normal rate for special events (sports, concerts, presidential inaugurations, etc.)
Pool photo courtesy of Aaron Webb.