2008 Woodie Awards
L.B. Transit fees could raise next year
Michael Brown
Issue date: 11/20/08 Section: News
The cost of traveling by bus via Long Beach Transit may rise in January 2009 if the company's Board of Directors deems it necessary to increase fees in response to state budget cuts.
Along with the proposed raising of the regular daily bus fare from $0.90 to $1.10 to $1.25, student monthly passes would increase from $31 to $40 to $45 if Transit's board decides at its meeting on Jan. 12, to hike the fees.
The board decided at a meeting in October to conduct a public hearing to further discuss the fare hikes. The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 3 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Long Beach Main Library's Auditorium at 101 Pacific Ave.
"The fare hikes had to be considered after the governor's budget cuts," said Marcelle Epley, Transit marketing manager. "The idea was to increase fees across the board so that we could operate during these uncertain times and still provide a service to the public."
"What can I say? If It's got to be done, it's got to be done," said LBCC student Donald Brazelton, who was waiting for the bus at Carson Street and Faculty Avenue. "I've got to move around by bus, so I'll adapt. Times are tough."
On its Web site, Transit reported that the hikes would help make up for a $6.4 million shortfall, which includes $4.3 million in reduced state funding approved by the governor. The site also went on to say the Transit's board would make the final decision about any fare changes after reviewing comments from the public.
"All public comments will be listened to and considered by the board to help them make their final decision," Epley said.
"I know they have budget concerns, but we all have budget concerns," said LBCC student Marlon Bowen. "Those extra $9 (first-year) matter to people like me, because I have a monthly pass that I use for school and work. They aren't being considerate."
Epley said that Transit has gone to great lengths to publicize the proposed hikes.
"We're transparent with the public in how we communicate," Epley said. "There are brochures on all buses outlining the fees along with bulletins and bilingual materials. Transit's Web site, press releases and the Transit Mall also are available for more information."
Public input can be left at (562) 489-8485 or fareadjustment@lbtransit.com. All comments must be made by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10.
If approved, the two-year proposal would be implemented in phases starting Sunday, Feb. 15, 2009 and Sunday, Feb. 14, 2010.
Along with the proposed raising of the regular daily bus fare from $0.90 to $1.10 to $1.25, student monthly passes would increase from $31 to $40 to $45 if Transit's board decides at its meeting on Jan. 12, to hike the fees.
The board decided at a meeting in October to conduct a public hearing to further discuss the fare hikes. The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 3 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Long Beach Main Library's Auditorium at 101 Pacific Ave.
"The fare hikes had to be considered after the governor's budget cuts," said Marcelle Epley, Transit marketing manager. "The idea was to increase fees across the board so that we could operate during these uncertain times and still provide a service to the public."
"What can I say? If It's got to be done, it's got to be done," said LBCC student Donald Brazelton, who was waiting for the bus at Carson Street and Faculty Avenue. "I've got to move around by bus, so I'll adapt. Times are tough."
On its Web site, Transit reported that the hikes would help make up for a $6.4 million shortfall, which includes $4.3 million in reduced state funding approved by the governor. The site also went on to say the Transit's board would make the final decision about any fare changes after reviewing comments from the public.
"All public comments will be listened to and considered by the board to help them make their final decision," Epley said.
"I know they have budget concerns, but we all have budget concerns," said LBCC student Marlon Bowen. "Those extra $9 (first-year) matter to people like me, because I have a monthly pass that I use for school and work. They aren't being considerate."
Epley said that Transit has gone to great lengths to publicize the proposed hikes.
"We're transparent with the public in how we communicate," Epley said. "There are brochures on all buses outlining the fees along with bulletins and bilingual materials. Transit's Web site, press releases and the Transit Mall also are available for more information."
Public input can be left at (562) 489-8485 or fareadjustment@lbtransit.com. All comments must be made by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10.
If approved, the two-year proposal would be implemented in phases starting Sunday, Feb. 15, 2009 and Sunday, Feb. 14, 2010.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
J.Sonny Cencora
posted 11/20/08 @ 5:49 PM PST
The cost of public transportation MAY RISE, sounds to me like they have already made up their minds, not considering the publics comments, scheduled for Dec 3rd. (Continued…)
Business Opportunities
posted 11/23/08 @ 11:11 PM PST
Sometimes it is just easier to raise your income than to cut your expenses. There is a shortage of jobs, but opportunities abound.
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