photo by Emma K Alexandra
From WMATA:
“Facing an unprecedented $750 million budget shortfall in the coming year, Metro is asking the public to provide feedback on the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Budget which includes drastic service cuts, fare increases, layoffs, and other severe cost cutting measures.
The $4.5 billion capital and operating budget proposal provides a worst-case scenario; however, Metro’s funding partners are currently working through legislation that may reduce some of the most detrimental fare and service changes proposed.
The public is encouraged to review the proposed FY25 budget and provide comments through our online survey tool, or by attending an in-person or virtual public hearing. All comments should be submitted no later than Tuesday, March 5, at 5 p.m.
The budget shortfall is the result of several factors, including the end of federal pandemic relief funds, historic inflation pushing costs up, and slower than expected ridership recovery. Metro has taken steps to close the funding gap by reducing administrative costs, using capital funds to cover operating maintenance expenses, and decreasing fare evasion.
These steps alone are not enough. Metro is legally required to present a balanced budget each year, and the FY25 budget proposals reflect the significant cuts that would be needed if our local, state, and federal partners are unable to supply the necessary funding.
Metro has released a revised FY25 proposed Budget based on public funding commitments that keeps operating spending flat with Fiscal Year 2024 and minimizes service changes. Pending this funding, the FY25 Budget proposal would severely limit service and increase costs for customers. These include: (more…)
