The MTA is considering “doomsday” budget measures to survive the financial toll of the pandemic. LI commuters could see fare hikes, job and service cuts and the potential elimination of some branches.
The agency is set to hike fares and tolls early next year, bringing the cost of the average monthly LIRR ticket to $358. The MTA said that number could still go up.
LIRR service could be reduced by up to 50%. Lines with the lowest ridership could be eliminated.
Reducing train service could allow the agency to cut some 850 jobs. Closing station ticket offices may eliminate an additional 60 positions.
Railroad president Phillip Eng: "It’s simply not possible to cut the budget by 50% and have it be anything other than catastrophic."