MTA Fare Hike and Congestion Pricing Details Revealed

The MTA Board has approved a $19.9 billion budget for 2025, which includes a planned 4% increase in fares and tolls, set to take effect in August 2025, raising subway and bus fares from $2.90 to approximately $3. This fare hike is part of a strategy to incrementally raise fares every two years to address rising operational costs, primarily driven by labor expenses. Critics have voiced concerns regarding affordability and service quality, particularly safety and reliability on the subway system. The fare increase follows a previous hike in 2023 and coincides with the introduction of a congestion pricing plan starting January 5, 2025, which will charge drivers $9 for entering Manhattan below 60th Street. The MTA's financial plan requires further approvals, including public hearings, before any fare adjustments are finalized. While MTA Chair Janno Lieber defends the hike as necessary for financial stability, there is public apprehension about the cumulative financial burden on New Yorkers.